We get a lot of pleasure from transforming a home from the ordinary to the extraordinary and this renovation was just that.
Located on the banks of Nelson’s Maitai river this 1970’s home with original décor has been completely transformed. The owners wanted the house to feel like a holiday home – the view was so peaceful and scenic, and they wanted to retain that… as if they were still on holiday.
Restricted by rules and regulations because of the house’s proximity to the river, the original footprint had to remain. While the original home was in good structural condition, the layout of the rooms was disjointed, with little regard for the sun or flow to outdoor living.
Extensive roof propping was required so all existing decks and walls could be removed to allow for new foundations and the pouring of a new exposed concrete floor to the entry and second lounge. New exterior walls were built, and internal walls reconfigured on both floors to create more open plan living spaces and larger rooms. Large double-glazed windows replaced existing and new windows were positioned for optimum solar gain as well as views.
This renovation has improved the quality and energy efficiency of the existing home while providing more natural light, a brighter interior, flexible living spaces and a connection with the garden as well as the river across the street and the hills behind.
We worked alongside our wonderful clients Cathy McBride and Martin Byrne together with Karsten Architecture to transform this home.
