Turner Road Architecture, based in the lively township of Cambridge, New Zealand, were engaged by the Sanderson Group to design a striking, visually arresting Café for the Tamahere Country Club. The resulting head-turning piece of architecture does not disappoint with its light-filled, cozy ambience, contemporary design aesthetic and flawless interior and exterior finish.
A unique contemporary building clad in textured metal, glass and natural wood, the timber latticework is a stand out feature both inside and out, and is highly functional providing display shelving as well as shade and privacy. The exterior cladding features textured metal scales, large areas of glass and natural timbers. The addition of vertical timber louvres not only adds dimension and interest but also provides privacy and regulates the amount of light and heat entering the interior of the building.
The café interior boasts a 235m2 floor area, providing ample room for patrons to relax and enjoy their dining experience. The space is light and airy due to the expansive glazing and a high, timber-tiled angled ceiling. Warmth has been added to the interior with the generous use of timber and a muted neutral color scheme. Clay pendant lights hang in the atrium and a gentle-rust shaded marble feature wall, add to the warm and inviting atmosphere.
The building’s striking architecture with contrasting materials and distinctive angles served as the inspiration for the interiors within the cafe. Sunlight floods the space, enhancing the natural materials and neutral color palette. The interior feels both spacious and relaxed, inviting guests to take a moment and enjoy their surroundings. Bespoke features throughout the café add a touch of sophistication and playfulness.
Alfresco dining is also available with a further 120m² of outdoor seating covered by a stunning cedar-lined ceiling. The ceiling also features adjustable louvres which allow the roof to openup so patrons can enjoy the sun when weather permits. A unique part of the design is a beautiful arched schist bridge, accompanied by a waterway and fountains, which extend along the southern boundary and can be admired from the large angular window and from the walkway that meanders between the bridge and the building.
The exterior aesthetic is finished off with a fully landscaped area to the North – providing a tranquil spot for residents and their families to relax. A cafe designed to offer a relaxed dining experience for Tamahere Country Club residents and their guests alike, its contemporary design featuring large open dining and outdoor terrace has become a social hub and culinary destination for the area. Although envisaged primarily for residents, the Café has now become a popular destination eatery for locals and visitors to the region.
