In the established suburb of Auckland's Mount Albert, a renovation project of a family home meant many challenges to bridge: extensive earthworks that navigated a public drain network and the volcanic rock of the area; and working around the large oak tree that graces the property. But the result is a stunning family home suited to modern living that fuses past and present.

To answer the resident’s wishes of turning their three-bedroom home into a larger family home where the children could continue to grow, Fortified Construction renovated the dwelling and added a 60sqm extension to the side – turning it into a four-bedroom, three-bathroom home with a large open-plan kitchen/living/dining area, separate lounge, and laundry.

The delineation between old and new is evident from the home’s exterior, with the extension’s dark vertical cedar cladding pairing with the original brick. This contrast can be seen as you approach the front door – with the materials showcased on either side.

“The house was extended out to the east of the original floorplan,” says Fortified Construction’s Julian Leighton. “The side yard is now the new driveway and entrance, while there’s a new street entrance for visitors.”

Inside, the definition between the existing building and the addition becomes less obvious with the homeowner’s careful consideration to styling – using many products from her linen and homewares showroom, Thread Design, in Grey Lynn.

Timber flooring in the open-plan family area adds warmth, while simple decoration and a white kitchen help the space feel bright and airy. This is accentuated by the extensive glazing that opens out to sundrenched decking.

Stepping down from the kitchen/living/dining, you’ll find the separate lounge area with dark built-in cabinetry – which houses the television and doubles as a mini library – with a built-in study nook also on the opposite side of the room.

“Lovely double sliding doors on opposite sides of this new living area provide wonderful aspects from both the front and back yards,” says Julian.

The interior materiality remains subdued throughout the rest of the home, with neutral tiling used in the bathroom spaces. The vanities mimic the dark cabinetry found in the sitting room, as does the joinery in the master suite’s walk-in-wardrobe.

Located in what was originally the garage, the adult’s retreat also features an ensuite with double vanity and walk-in shower, a sitting area, and plenty of natural light.

“It was an amazing transformation from the original home to what the residents have now.”

Words: Cassie Birrer

Photography by Patty Lagera Photography