PORTRAITS OF PLACE
Image by Simon Devitt
Simon Devitt has been photographing New Zealand architecture for more than 25 years – and his latest book suggests the journey is far from over.
Simon Devitt traversed the country for Cape to Bluff Vol. 2, bringing together 30 architecturally designed houses defined by their landscapes – including the Dune House in Mangawhai. Returning to familiar landscapes and discovering new ones, his photography traces the edges where weather, architecture, and human habitation meet. Made in collaboration with architectural writer Andrea Stevens, the book is atlas-sized to do justice to its expansive imagery.
"When I finished the first Cape to Bluff, I thought I'd taken a long walk. It turns out it was only the beginning," reflects Simon. "The years since have been another kind of journey – slower, quieter. I see the light differently too – softer, more patient; a kind of companion rather than a spotlight."
Among the houses featured is the Dune House in Mangawhai, designed by Nicholas Dunning of Oto Group for his own parents. A multi-generational home calibrated to feel right-sized for two, it opens into a generous guest wing when family arrives.
"The big challenge on this site was creating shelter outdoors," says Nicholas. "Shaped around three courtyards, the floor plan is tuned to the view and shelter from the different winds. The light on the edge of the estuary is really unusual – in the mornings and evenings it bounces off the sand and turns the whole scene luminous. When you look out to the barrier dune and the Marotere Islands, they read as simple, massive forms, particularly at dawn. I wanted to echo that in the architecture."
Simon's photography, together with Andrea's writing, captures the full design story, showing how each architectural idea creates a home that resonates deeply with its environment. Cape to Bluff Vol. 2 is available to purchase from the website below.