Two separate yet equally scenic worlds have been revealed as a result of this skilful renovation. The house now has a private spa area cocooned by native bush and a living room that drinks in views of the Auckland cityscape. So how did a simple 1950s brick two-bedroom home morph into an oasis that takes in such diverse vistas? Enter Box Build. When the architectural building company was asked to alter and expand the house, it instantly appreciated the mid-century qualities: mataī floors, a raked ceiling and a groovy, crazy- paved wall. It wasn’t all so impressive. The house lacked a distinct entry and storage, there were unnecessary corridors and, as was common at the time, the kitchen was separate from the living room. These were all addressed in the renovation and timber-clad extensions that have resulted in one cool 166sqm three-bedroom, two-bathroom home.

The addition has the main bedroom and ensuite (which can be accessed from the deck), an office and a meditation-yoga room, beneath a half gable which dovetails with the roof of the original home. While this wing faces west to the bush, the layout of the main living room in the existing bungalow was reconfigured so the updated kitchen and dining space could take advantage of their northerly aspect. On the street side, a new entrance with a canopy means visitors now enjoy a clear welcome to this haven in the Waitākere Ranges foothills.