Diagrid: the House with a 56-ton Cantilevered Concrete Roof

As we step into the Diagrid House, we are immediately enveloped by an atmosphere that challenges the conventions of residential architecture. Designed by Jack McKinney Architects, this house is a celebration of innovation and the raw beauty of concrete. It’s challenging to find words to describe the experience this space offers, but ’primitive, yet poetic’ is a brave attempt, as described by Jack McKinney himself. The most striking element of this house is undoubtedly the concrete roof with a diagonal grid structure, known as diagrid, weighing an impressive 56 tons. This roof not only shields the interior of the house but also becomes an ever-evolving work of art, reflecting the daylight and nighttime in surprising ways. The kitchen, although dark and mysterious, intriguingly contrasts with the brightness of the main living area. The bathrooms feature granite walls, and the children’s bedrooms boast mezzanine sleeping platforms, with one accessible only through a climbing wall. Upstairs, the master bedroom offers a breathtaking view of the nearby park. Every corner of this house is simultaneously serene and triumphant, setting a new standard in domestic architecture. The Diagrid House stands out amidst the traditional villas and bungalows of Grey Lynn in Auckland. Its boldness is undeniable, and it was recognized when awarded Home magazine’s Home of the Year. The judges praised its ability to push boundaries, particularly due to the spectacular concrete roof that hovers above the living area. This residence combines exposed concrete with darkened steel and black-stained oak. Despite its spaciousness, it maintains a sense of lightness and authenticity, avoiding ostentation. Its ’perfectly imperfect’ approach celebrates the marks and incidents of its construction, adding a unique touch of character. The Diagrid House is a true landmark of modern architecture, masterfully contrasting areas of brightness with darkness. The diagonal grid roof allows sunlight to enter various points of the house, creating shadows that dance with the passing of the day. Project: Diagrid House Location: Grey Lynn, Auckland, New Zealand Architect: Jack Mckinney Architects Photography: Patrick Reynolds