These two edgy inner-city townhouses are located on Manchester Street, Christchurch. Their sharp and modern aesthetic adds some much anticipated street appeal to an area previously affected by the 2011 earthquake. Surrounding new amenities and developments include the Margaret Mahy playground, the beautifully restored Christchurch Town Hall, the Terrace and Riverside markets, and many others along the scenic Avon River.

The brief for this small 301sqm lot was to create two 3-bedroom modern townhouses with instant street appeal on what is likely to be the only visible boundary from this busy inner-city street. A cohesive aesthetic was desired, and maximization of space to achieve private, functional, and open living spaces. High importance was also placed on creating an easy-care low maintenance section to facilitate an urban lifestyle for occupants without compromising on quality.

The sharp and modern aesthetic of these seemingly compact townhouses is courtesy of quality material selections, and expressions of texture, form, and light; all of which carry through to the interior environment. From Cedar and Colorsteel tray cladding, to oak flooring and wool carpet, this level of materiality is complimented by the spatial qualities achieved in raking ceilings, floor to ceiling glass, and open plan living that even facilitates a scullery and internal laundry. Interior comfort and privacy are also highly valued in the ducted and underfloor heating systems, automatic louvres and electric gates to the busy streetfront environment frequented by buses as a main transport route within Christchurch.

At 153sqm floor area per townhouse (306sqm total floor area across the site), efficient space planning achieved the 3 double bedrooms, walk in robe, naturally lit ensuite, bathroom and hallway, a powder room, single garage, and a kitchen complimented by a scullery and internal laundry.

Outdoor living is also carefully considered in the planning process; western sun is captured in the front terrace area, while a second more secluded timber clad courtyard is also available off the living area, offering two quite different outdoor living options.

The considered design achieves quality indoor and outdoor living, as well as a safe, secure, and private environment which is important to the occupants of high density living.

Photography by Graham Warman and Paul Willetts