Group Architects’ Mann House is a finely resolved example of New Zealand mid-century modernism. The home is on the market for the first time in more than two decades.
Completed in 1960 and primarily designed by Ivan Juriss, with later refinements by Wilson & Juriss, the house demonstrates the discipline, clarity, and material honesty for which the Group became renowned.
Formed in 1946, Group Architects articulated their position in the manifesto On the necessity for architecture — an ethos that would underpin their work for decades. Rejecting imported stylistic models, the Group argued for an architecture shaped by local climate, landscape, and ways of living, expressing the need for New Zealand to have “its own sense of what is beautiful and appropriate to our climate and conditions”. Through a series of carefully considered domestic projects, they helped define a distinctly New Zealand residential vernacular.
Following the departure of several founding members, Ivan Juriss and Bill Wilson continued practising together as Wilson & Juriss. While the Mann House has at times been associated with this later partnership, it was designed during the Group’s active period and remains firmly rooted in that lineage.
Held in careful guardianship for more than two decades, the house is now offered to a new custodian.
Set back from the street behind a small orchard, the approach establishes an immediate sense of retreat. Inside, the architecture unfolds through a restrained and enduring palette: iconic concrete block walls are paired with native and hardwood timbers, creating interiors that feel composed, tactile, and quietly robust. A sensitive modernisation has introduced contemporary comfort while remaining faithful to the home’s original intent.
The ground floor is organised around daily life. A thoughtfully updated kitchen connects easily to the main living space and opens to both front and rear gardens, reinforcing the relationship of the house with the outdoors. Two bedrooms on this level are served by a full bathroom, allowing flexibility for family living or adaptable occupation.
Upstairs, the primary suite occupies an elevated, treehouse-like position. With an ensuite and study, it is immersed in greenery and enjoys expansive views across Auckland City — a private retreat set above the canopy.
To the rear, the house opens onto a landscaped garden anchored by a covered pergola, which forms a sheltered outdoor room for entertaining, outdoor cooking, or quiet use throughout the seasons.
Set discreetly behind a stand of cabbage trees, a fully independent guest house completes the property. Architecturally sympathetic to the main dwelling, it features cedar cladding, polished concrete floors, and plywood interiors, and includes a kitchenette, living area, study, bedroom, and bathroom. The pavilion offers flexibility for guests, intergenerational living, working from home, or potential income, while maintaining separation from the primary residence.
“It has been a joy to live in such an architectural gem … the spaces, construction materials, and architectural features work beautifully together. The house feels like a cloak. It’s a four-season home; comforting in the winter, and in summer it opens up into the outdoor spaces beautifully — almost like opening the fly to a tent when camping,” the current owner explains.
Mann House presents a rare opportunity to engage with a significant work of New Zealand architecture — a home that continues to demonstrate the enduring relevance of mid-century modern design.
10 Violet Street, Mount Albert is for sale via Caroline Daniel of Kellands. View the full listing here.
