By Crosson Architects
The house is set on a gently sloping site that is surrounded by existing houses to the East, West and South. The elevated site provides sweeping northern views over St Heliers to the Waitemata Harbour beyond.
The shape and form of the dwelling was established to maximise the site and the northern aspect. A hanging corten-steel entry canopy is flanked by a large garage and courtyard wall. This leads through to a gallery spine with private courtyards either side. A media room opens out onto the visible courtyard while the 3 bedrooms and laundry each open out onto private courtyards.
A three storey in-situ concrete stairwell wall leads to the upper levels. Vertical timber battens adjacent filters light and permit visual connections to the spaces beyond. The second level contains the main family, kitchen and dining areas with a separate living room and bedroom. These living areas face out to the sea views while the dining and kitchen area also opens out onto a rear courtyard with an inground swimming pool and terrace.
The main bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, dressing room and separate study is located on the third level. Above this an exterior roof terrace is accessed via a roof hatch to maximise the 360 degree panoramic views.
Modern construction consisting of a mix of natural timbers, corten steel, zinc and glass reflect a contemporary yet sensitive material selection.
Finishes of materials are natural blacks, browns and light greys, offset by the red of the corten steel. The white interior is softened by the warmth of the Australian Blackwood timber joinery and American Oak floor contrasting with the raw finish of the in-situ concrete.
Photography by Patrick Reynolds