By Chaplin Crooks Architects
A rebuild of an earthquake damaged 1970’s modernist family home incorporating the essence of the original design with all the liveability, comfort and convenience of a contemporary bespoke dwelling. The lower floor features two bedrooms and a bathroom with a central rumpus area, ideal for teenagers or guests. Living spaces and the main bedroom suite are located on the upper floor to make best use of the sun and views over the Avon-Heathcote Estuary.
A main feature of the home is the exquisitely detailed central spiral stair lined in a combination of dressed and bandsawn cedar boarding. The vertical circulation allows for a variety of living spaces to radiate off the core of the home, like branches off a tree trunk. The rooms can be open-plan or closed off with large sliding doors, depending on requirements. Natural timbers feature prominently both inside and outside the home and include species such as western red cedar, American oak, American walnut, eucalyptus saligna and vitex.
A large north-west facing covered deck is accessed directly from the dining space and links to the lower level terraces and garden with an external spiral stair, mirroring the internal circulation route.
Chaplin Crooks Architects is a medium-sized practice based in Ferrymead, Christchurch. Director John Chaplin started his own business in 1976, specialising in residential hillside homes and alterations. Stephen Crooks and John Chaplin then formed the practice of Chaplin Crooks Architects Ltd in 2003, and long-term employee Greg Miller joined them as a partner in 2015.
We are Christchurch architects with over 40 years’ experience working on new builds, difficult sites, complex alterations and earthquake repairs we’re the residential architecture specialists to guide you through your project’s many challenges.
We have a collaborative approach to design. Most projects will be completed by a team consisting of a project architect and a Technician, and we openly discuss projects within the office to make the most of our wide-ranging experience and skill sets.
We believe that the design and building of your new home should be wonderful and memorable experience. When you invest in good design you will get the benefit of our creativity and experience in the form of a wonderful home that you will enjoy living in for years to come.