2015 ADNZ NATIONAL AWARD WINNER

The existing home was a small, rundown historical villa with a rabbit warren lean-to extension at the rear. It had huge potential and was screaming out for restoration!

The dwelling is located on a sizable corner site in a developed & characterful area of Cambridge. Beautiful tree lined streets frame two sides of the site with a large heritage tree (protected) located to the south-west corner.

The brief called for the villa to be renovated in a way that was sympathetic to the original homes character whilst injecting all of the luxuries of modern day living.  It also required a large extension to be added to the rear of the home to accommodate the owner’s large collection of antique furniture.

The result, a sophisticated and comfortable family home that accommodates 3 generations with ease!

Particular challenges posed by the site included:

·         Presence of a protected, heritage tree located on the property

·         House required re-piling

·         Creating additional space for a garage & onsite parking

·         Height to boundary issues

·         Curious neighbours with a concern for the protection of the existing dwelling.  Many believed the original home would be removed from the site. 

Specific client requests included:

·         Large open plan living spaces to allow flexible arrangement of antique furniture

·         Renovation to be consistent with the existing homes exterior, whilst injecting a modern ‘flavour’ to the interior

·         Three bedrooms plus study/library

·         New double garage aligned with the design & character of the home

·         Large laundry including a shower – as the owners are avid gardeners

·         Large verandahs from which to enjoy the tranquil surroundings

Design features and creative solutions

Because the existing dwelling required re-piling the decision was made to relocate the house forward on the site.  This enabled thorough preparation of the site & the home to be carefully re-positioned to ensure compliance with height to boundary restrictions.  Careful precautions were made not to interfere with the protected tree during this process & to utilize its’ presence to add to the homes overall character.  Relocation also created space to the sites rear to accommodate the large extension & new garage.

Because the owners adored the character of the original home we were committed to restoring beautiful features such as verandah fretwork, ceiling roses, and double hung windows.  The extension was carefully designed to add much needed space whilst achieving a seamless transition between old and new!

To ensure absolute comfort within the home passive design elements were utilised where-ever possible.  The main living was orientated north to allow for solar gain.  Large characterful verandahs were designed with dual functionality in mind – providing effective screening from the harsh summer sun, and extending the indoor spaces to the outside to enhance enjoyment of the surrounding vista. The entire home was re-insulated & new double glazed windows were installed throughout.  Windows were installed on the east and west faces to allow for effective cross-flow ventilation.

Painted pine weatherboard cladding, corrugated iron roofing and cedar joinery were used on the exterior. Traditional trims and finials were replicated and used to ensure the true character of the home was honoured.