Glade House Remuera
CONTEXT
This project is a renovation of a late 1950's residential
dwelling in a bush glade setting in suburban Remuera. The house is
modernist in style, typical of the period with low-pitched gabled
roof, raking ceilings and exposed rafters.
DESIGN
Fundamental to the re-design was the notion of providing
"graduated connections" to the surrounding glade, physical and
visual.
Spaces are divided by a "blade" element that alters the
entrance's appearance by extending the original chimney breast and
pulls together the two floors as well as creating a stairwell that
accommodates two fireplaces - one exterior, one interior.
The new entry has been lowered and the structure floated over a
pool of water to give a sense of lightness that reflects light into
the inner recesses of the lower level through an aperture that once
was the study window.
Alterations to the upper private wing look to better utilise
existing space; a reconfigured Master bedroom/new ensuite, new
bathroom and additional bedroom.
The new garage extrudes from the existing gable form and is
wrapped in a mixture of clear acrylic sheet/over-slatting and
stained shadowclad ply. A new ramp connection to the rear
entry is covered by an "attached' series of angle frames with open
slats fixed to allow secure passage whilst maintaining light and
openness.
Kitchen, Dining and Living spaces featured insertions of
new interior units and new or upgraded exterior joinery units to
enhance connections to extended deck spaces and outdoor fire
area.
The lower floor area now incorporates guest accommodation and
additional bar space that provides a facility for guests to cater
for themselves with connections off this space to a deck/patio area
and landscaped gardens.
NEW ZEALAND INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS AWARD WINNER - RESIDENTIAL
CATEGORY - 2012
"A sixties bungalow has been subtly and sensitively altered
to create an elegant and warmly-toned treasure in a suburban glade.
The flow of air and play of light has been masterly handled in
realising a restful house that is a joy to inhabit. In the careful
grafting of new elements to existing structure the architects have
provided a demonstration of sustainability in action. The
architect's empathy with the site and the client's needs is evident
in the restrained artistry of a house that's truly at home in its
natural environment." Jury Citation