NZIA Wellington Architecture Award 2018

Jury citation: “The sense of calm that pervades this house is derived from the way in which the architect has focused views and provided refuge within the bush setting. From a sheltered entrance, the house opens into distinct but well-connected spaces that are defined by perfectly framed picture windows. Generous in all the right places, and snug where it matters, this house has been exquisitely fine-tuned to the environment.”

The house sits at the end of a narrow road, perched on a steep hillside, looking down a bush-clad valley to the Korokoro Stream with views out to Wellington Harbour through a V in the hills. It is two storied with bedrooms upstairs and living spaces below.

A covered walkway steps down beside the garage leading to the front door with diagonal views out to the north facing deck, lawn and hills beyond. From the entry, passage through the house follows the line of the hillside in a procession of gentle steps down to the main living spaces, that look over the valley and wrap around a private north facing deck.

The house is designed as a private and peaceful retreat with colouring and materials that comfortably sit amongst the verdant surroundings. In contrast the garage door becomes like a lantern lighting up at night.

Photographer Paul McCredie