Staying in character

Credit: NICK GURUNG          1 / 0
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Updating a Victorian villa in a Special Character area requires careful handling. This single-storey heritage home has close neighbours and it was important that, street-side, it was in keeping with the rest of the road. The homeowners wanted a more contemporary look inside, and better access to the outdoor space at the rear. The street-side elevation has been restored, with one side of the raised garden transformed into a basement garage. A flush garage door matches the white timber exterior. Inside, the original house now contains three bedrooms, a study, bathroom and lounge, while the new build at the rear has a very modern feel. Take the short flight of stairs down to the kitchen and living area, built using recycled brick and kauri from the original home, but with a modern twist. The brick floor pairs well with the dark aesthetic of the kitchen, and the living area opens to the outdoors through corner sliding doors, with easy access to a paved patio, pool and garden. A new stairway connects the two-storey addition — a main bedroom with access to a private balcony. The walk-in wardrobe and tiled ensuite are surprisingly roomy, with a glass arch leading to a fully tiled shower. This house, historic at the front, has plenty going on at the back.

NATIONAL AWARDS WON

Top 100

REGIONAL AWARDS WON

Regional Supreme Renovation of the Year

Regional Pink Batts Craftsmanship

Regional Category Winner

Regional Gold

REGION & CATEGORY:

Auckland / Northland / Coromandel
Renovation over $1.5 million