Rooftop Terraces is an inner city residential development comprising three terrace houses. The site was previously home to a small garden centre and car yard before being re-envisaged as a multi-unit residential development in the heart of Nelson. At less than 10m wide and 40m long, this narrow site stretches between a main road Collingwood Street, and a back alley, Malthouse Lane, with the Maitai River and riverside walkway nearby. The dwellings sit between existing buildings to the north and south, with views out to Nelson’s hills east and west.

The client wished to create a unique residential inner-city living option in a prime location. The two dwellings facing Collingwood Street have pedestrian access from the street and comprise two bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan living, dining, kitchen area flowing out onto a balcony overlooking Collingwood Street. A light-filled staircase leads up to the rooftop terraces. The third dwelling on Malthouse Lane comprises three bedrooms, an office, three bathrooms, and large open plan living, dining kitchen flowing out onto the rooftop terrace. Vehicle access to all three dwellings is off Malthouse Lane. High ceilings give a sense of space and volume. Outdoor living is provided by courtyards at ground level, balconies and roof terraces. The rooftops provide privacy, sun and views over the city.

An industrial material and colour palette has been used – exposed concrete block, precast tilt panel (also exposed in selected areas to the interior), aluminium and plaster cladding in grey hues with a monochrome interior palette. White perforated screens filter the light and provide privacy for inhabitants and visual interest from the street.

The development embraces inner-city living and utilises a tight site efficiently. The three dwellings add an interesting texture to the street fabric of this part of the CBD.

Photography by Kate MacPherson.