WATERVIEW HOUSE | STATE HOUSE RENOVATION & CONTEMPORARY EXTENSION

The former state house holds a particular place in New Zealand's architectural story - modest, well-built homes that shaped whole suburbs and housed generations. This project in Waterview takes one of them into its next chapter.

Our clients bought the house as their first step onto the property ladder, with a clear brief: keep the character of the original dwelling, open up the living spaces, add the extra bedroom their growing family needed, and do it without unnecessary expense.

The original weatherboard home was retained at the front, its familiar form holding its presence on the street exactly as it always has.

Stepping down from the original layout, a new living, dining and kitchen wing extends to the rear - a black extension that makes no attempt to mimic what came before it, and is stronger for that honesty. Old and new sit in open conversation rather than uneasy negotiation.

Skylights draw light deep into the new spaces through the day, while floor-to-ceiling sliders open the living areas onto the deck and flat rear lawn.

Completed on a tight budget within a short timeframe.

Since completion, the home has sold, and we are working with the same clients on their next step - a Point Chevalier bungalow, to be renovated in stages.

Project Scope - concept design, developed design, resource consent, building consent, on-site monitoring

Images by Nine4

With thanks to Reuben Payn at Whitefox Real Estate