This is a house for a couple who commute to Wellington to work, a house that is casual, sunny, open and light and related to the subtleties of the site.

The street boundary faces northeast and in the middle of the site is a small hillock. We have run the house through level across this allowing it to float above the ground at the front and rear.

At the centre of the house, where it touches the ground, a courtyard is indented to bring in sun and light and provide a private outside living. The kitchen is at the centre of the living spaces, which flow in three directions from this point.

Photography - Paul McCredie

Awards: NZIA Local Award 2004