A schist-clad central south-facing courtyard joins the main section of the house to the two wings containing the bedrooms and service areas. The design called for a nested volume with a low pitched roof to fit quietly in the surrounding kanuka vegetation in order to satisfy planning restrictions in terms of visibility from the lake edge.
Sebastiano Broadhead designs homes for people.
I grew up in Italy, the son of an architect, and was two thirds through a degree in architecture at Florence university when the tempting prospect of converting a farm house into a restaurant with my New Zealand girl friend cut short my studies. And yes, it was also because of her that I came to New Zealand, and started my solo practice in Christchurch in 1998.
Between Italy and New Zealand we spent a brief interlude in Panama, where I did a few small projects.
I like construction and have worked on a few of my projects. I think that fosters my interest in resolving design details as simply as possible and choosing local materials as a first preference. My designs revolve around environmental considerations and efficiencies in running a house, which perhaps results in a tendency to be compact and minimal, and choosing energy-saving systems. In line with my Italian heritage I enjoy cooking (which seems to be appreciated!) and I am keen to ensure the kitchen functions well.
I provide concept designs, and models if requested, through to building consent documentation. I outsource engineering and other consultants if required.
I provide a free first consultation.