In detailing, we focused on reduction and precision, offsetting tactile, organic material. Sharp cabinets of toothy oak are adorned with handles in bronze: sand castings of bluestone, taken from the wall alongside. Nested within are big soft squabs in heavy weaves of ivory linen; pale curtains drop from discrete ceiling voids behind.

In the corner, an ovoid disc of green stone seats group of eight. Anchoring the room is a giant swamp kauri slab with machined edges and an archipelago of fluid, irregular legs. Overhead, hand carved discs of kauri are pierced by fine brass tubes, throwing little pools of light onto the tables.

We hoped all of this would add up to a humble, gentle little room; a place that quietly stands up to the grandiosity of its surrounds.

Photographer Samuel Hartnett