This extensive renovation of an existing two-story house is a celebration of family life and beautiful scenery. Located adjacent to a beachfront promenade at the base of Wellington’s Eastern Hills, the arrangement of spaces facilitates a strong connection between the hills and the harbour.

Expansive views across the beach to the sea and city beyond can be enjoyed from a private but open living area, made more dramatic by a suspended fireplace. A window seat nook within this space was incorporated to capture views of the Kaikoura Range in a more intimate setting.

A generous central hallway with its axis centred on Mākaro Island, links the main living with the kitchen and a second outdoor living space with views back to the hills. When Wellington’s famous southerly rolls in, this area can still be enjoyed under a covered pergola in a sheltered tranquil garden setting, warmed by an outdoor fireplace.

The upper floor was reconfigured to provide more generous bedrooms and efficient access to the shared bathroom. An under-utilized outdoor deck was converted to an ensuite bathroom with a built-in bath that overlooks the harbour for a uniquely special private bathing experience.

The success of this project was largely due to a trusting relationship between Wallace Architects and the owners, who are very passionate about design and have a keen eye for detail.

Client Comment

Liz understood what our families’ requirements were, and what was superfluous to our needs. She created a family home for us, which is always warm, the use of space is well considered allowing us areas to retreat to. It has a great flow and connection with the very different environments, beautiful detailing and most importantly a home we love spending time in.  The end result was due to Liz’s attention to detail, design skills and knowledge of building in a coastal environment. This focus on detail paired with a great team of builders meant that we ended up with a fantastic result, a home that feels like a new build, rather than a renovation.

- Nicola and Andrew Cathie

© Wallace Architects Ltd

Photography by Paul McCredie.