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With an impressive cliff-top position overlooking a private beach, this Atiu Island site is nestled into a secluded, ecologically sensitive environment. Northeast of Rarotonga in the Southern Cook Island group, Atiu boasts rare and sensitive plant species.

With no infrastructure in the area, this ECO Tourism accommodation destination and weekend retreat needed to be self-sufficient, while also care-taking the native plant life.

The building and decks are constructed to 'float' over the ground to avoid disturbing the delicate flora. The building generates its own electricity with solar energy and collects storm water for drinking. A sanitary sewer storage and treatment system is installed under the western deck and pumped to an evapo-transpiration field some 150m from the residence.

The footprint of the main building replicates a compass with two separate structures anchored together by an open deck and roof structure. Spacious outdoor areas at the corners of the main building provide shelter for all weather conditions and the position of the two building structures give guests separate, private outlooks.

ICR Studio Ltd
Auckland

Professionals used in
Eco Aitu Retreat

About the
Professional

At ICR Studio we believe that listening, deliberation, and collaboration are the key to creating simple and compelling architectural solutions.

Since 2005, our award-winning team have brought their expertise to every kind of project, from residential to large institutional and commercial projects, throughout New Zealand and the Cook Islands.

Along with our other company, ehouse we have a diverse range and knowledge to suit all of your needs. 

At ArchiPro we recognise and acknowledge the existing, original and ancient connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to the lands and waterways across the Australian continent. We pay our respects to the elders past and present. We commit to working together to build a prosperous and inclusive Australia.