This familiar project type – the Auckland villa extension.

The project was in two stages, the first being the adaptation of the ruins of an existing blockwork double garage into a studio space. New openings were cut into the existing walls, and a pleated roof form was devised to bring afternoon light into the space and to borrow views of neighbouring trees. The new roof adds significant sunlight, volume and interest while complying with height to boundary controls.

The extension to the simple square front villa built on the strategy for the garage, forming two glazed peaks that bring Northern light into the East-facing room. The single large room is subtly divided into two distinct spaces [living / dining] via the changing geometry of the ceiling, and the movement of light across the walls during the day. A flat transition between the peaked ceilings traces the axis of the central villa hallway, linking the front of the house to the back. A sheltered zone beyond the sliding glazing reinterprets the front verandah in a simpler form. A ramped lawn and serrated concrete steps connect the two new structures on the site.

New Zealand Institute of Architects 2011 Auckland Architecture Award Winner [Small Project].