Auckland-based architect Ken Crosson of Crosson Architects has won a highly esteemed German Design Award 2018 for the design of the ‘Red House’ in Titirangi, a tribute to New Zealand’s landscape and architecture.

The Federal Republic of Germany demands a rigorous list of criteria before granting The Design Award for outstanding achievement in specific design fields. 

The Red House embraces Crosson’s adaptability and appreciation of New Zealand’s natural environment, sustainability and the art of architecture.

Crosson says that the compact and cost-effective home is ‘a simple, red abstract cube’ that provides a striking contrast to the lush green New Zealand bush.

“Vertical and horizontal corrugated iron cladding break up the scale of the building,” he says, while the interior maximises natural light and connects the owners to the surrounding treescape.

“Large skylights, translucent doors and wrapped glazing result in an open feeling, while a glass enclosure on the second level leads to a roof deck high within the tree canopy boasting all day sun and spectacular views.”

The thoughtful and innovative architectural designs of Ken Crosson and his team have won numerous architectural awards locally and internationally, but he comments that this award feels particularly special.

“It’s one of the most important accomplishments of my career and an absolute honour to receive the award in person,” he says.

Crosson will be in Germany to attend the award ceremony of the German Design Award 2018, which takes place on 9 February in the context of the Ambiente fair in Frankfurt am Main.

www.german-design-award.com/en