By Higham Architecture
Perched on an elevated corner site at the foot of the Port Hills in Christchurch, this striking new home features two simple roof forms passing through each other to capture sun and city views to the north as well as pocket views back up the valley to the south.
Vertical cedar and offset fibre cement panels highlight the contrasting forms while horizontal weatherboards on the entry wing wall flow right through to the interior where there is a level of light and spaciousness that completely belies the home's very modest 185m² size.
From a planning perspective, this property presented an immense challenge. With a mere 446m² to play with and imposing road boundary setbacks on two sides, it was clear that restrictive council rules would need to be taken with a liberal dose of ‘give and take’.
This unique new home achieved the maximum 5-Star certification under Lifemark’s design standards. These principles ensure the home is much easier for the clients to live in now and in the future, and that it’s also safe and accessible for visiting friends and family of all ages and stages of life.
Higham Architecture is a specialist in unique, residential architecture, both new homes and additions/alterations. With over 25 years experience and more than 30 design awards, architectural designer Jason Higham prides himself on high quality design and a personalised service to suit each client.
Meeting clients on-site (or at home) is an important first step in the process that Jason really enjoys – it's a chance to see the characteristics of the site, the clients, and the potential of the design project. Jason works closely with clients to help ensure their functional needs are met, balanced with aesthetics and the budget. Leading-edge 3D software is used to create computer visualisations of each design so that clients can accurately see how their design will look and feel before it is even built.
Higham Architecture is Lifemark accredited, so Jason can help ensure your home design is accessible, adaptable and safe for your entire family now and in the future. Also certified as a Homestar Practitioner, sustainability aspects are important for Jason. Evidence of his emphasis on quality rather than quantity can be seen in the numerous regional and national architecture awards Jason has won over the years, and in the fact that almost all new clients approach Higham Architecture via word of mouth referrals.
While the office is based in Rangiora, Jason is also regularly in Christchurch for site visits, client meetings, etc, so is well positioned to personally service the region. Examples of his work can be seen throughout Christchurch and the greater Canterbury region, including work in Banks Peninsula, West Melton, Templeton, Kaiapoi, West Eyreton, Cheviot, Waikari, and Hanmer Springs, as well as down in Wanaka.