Modernist homes are a feature of the rolling landscape to the west of Auckland city, often sited nicely for the sun and to make the most of beautiful views. Homes of that era, however, can be a little cramped for the requirements of a modern family. This project, therefore, required an extensive addition to one such spectacularly located home and was aimed at gaining more breathing space for all the inhabitants. The black-painted weatherboard-clad house needed not only a contemporary main bedroom (and ensuite) but also extra living space and the up-sizing of two existing bedrooms. And, since every growing family needs plenty of space to play, plenty of storage for those playthings.

This renovation achieved it all. The former main bedroom was converted into a family rumpus room with storage, floor space was increased in two of the children’s bedrooms and a connecting hall created. At the southern end of the dwelling, a new main bedroom with an ensuite and living space all overlook the magic of the Kaipara Harbour. Renovations can be challenging and this one meets today’s expectations of seamlessly flowing spaces with clever design and the use of exterior cladding by Rosenfeld Kidson to meld the old exterior with the new.