Week 2: Te Aranga Design Principles

This week we looked into the Te Aranga Design Principles and how they can be implemented in our own designs of the bathhouse. These are some of the principles and how I would consider them when designing my bathhouse.

Kotahitanga: This is the idea of unity, cohesion and collaboration. In my design, I want to emphasize the kotahitanga between the outside natural environment of the pocket forest as well and the interior of the bathhouse. I would probably go about this by creating openings into the forest to allow the harmony and peace to flow into the space.

Wairuatanga: This is the idea of being a part of a wider interconnected realm. In my design, I am considering the connection between Papatuanuku (Mother Earth) and Ranginui (Sky Father) by not breaking the connection between the two in my pocket forest. I will ensure that my pocket forest remains a permeable surface allowing the low and connection between Papatuanuku and Ranginui.

Manaakitanga: This is the idea of being hospitable. To ensure good manaakitanga in my design, I will include a refreshments stand as well as offering comfortable facilities such as toilets, showers and private changing rooms.

Kaitiakitanga: This is the idea of conserving the reciprocal relationship between humans and the natural environment. I want to ensure that when I design I design alongside and with the surrounding natural environment (including the pocket forest) and not against it. I will consider my carbon footprint in each of my design choices.

Mauritanga: This is the idea of maintaining life force in order to protect the environment. Important considerations in my design will include drainage and how to go about this without polluting the surrounding environment. I will also look into the best way for the environment to heat the pools if I decide to have heated pools. A really important consideration will be the cleaning chemicals. I will look into how I can keep naturally keep the pools clean and hygienic to avoid using strong chemicals that could hurt the surrounding environment.