By Mercer and Mercer Architects Ltd
Brief
Our clients wanted to build something different and fun…"a dangerous start with an Architect," we laughed. Being in the yachting industry, Rod and Liz have always liked the scale and drama of industrial spaces, and the honesty of the materials and structure employed. They wanted something different, and were spurred on by son Grant, a recent Graduate Architect, who became part of the team at Mercer and Mercer. So this would be Grant’s new family home, tailor-made to suit his family, dramatic yet comfortable and private. Fit for entertaining and a strong connection to the outdoors.
Design
A two storey form along the south boundary makes the rest of the site private and sheltered. The roof then extends over living and outdoor spaces with two storey chimneys completing the structure.
High open spaces add drama to an otherwise normal suburban setting. The large cantilevered roof protects full height doors from wind, sun and rain, and a clerestory lights the interior. The double height living spaces are served by two levels of private bedrooms and bathrooms beyond.
This city house is dramatic yet humble, solid and light, different and fun.
Mercer and Mercer is a multi award winning practice in Auckland & Hamilton, with a reputation for strong design, and delivering quality Architecture.
Mercer and Mercer is committed to the design of buildings and places, that engage with their environmental and cultural context, and the traditions and aspirations of the people that use them.
Our work is founded on the premise that good design affects people in a positive way, in public and in private. Our designs are recognized for their degree of innovation, and attitude to all things NZ.
Our residential projects include public housing, apartments, coastal retreats and the bespoke residence. Our commercial projects include Heritage work in Aucklands Britomart precinct, multi use developments, factories, and commercial/retail developments.
Mercer and Mercer Architects Ltd was founded in 1959 by Adam’s father, Dick Mercer, a contemporary of the Group Architects. Adam became a director in 1993 and currently employs three staff. The practice continues to enjoy a variety of projects with the design philosophy that architecture is tailored to its location and its people.