Devonport Villa

Devonport Villa - Winner ADNZ Home Interiors Award 2025

Devonport Villa is the private haven of Michael and Rebecca Macfie, directors of Macfie Architecture. Built in 1904, this classic villa has been carefully restored and modernised to seamlessly blend its heritage character with contemporary design.

The renovation preserved the home’s original features while introducing thoughtful upgrades. The basement was excavated to create a self-contained studio and pool, while the interiors were reimagined with a balance of tradition and modern comfort. A dramatic four-metre-high black shaker kitchen anchors the home, finished with Miele appliances and marble surfaces. Bathrooms showcase heritage Perrin & Rowe fixtures, traditional tiling, and design details that honour the villa’s timeless character.

Children’s bedrooms were layered with personality through wallpapers from Farrow & Ball and Fee Greening x Common Room, paired with Aalto paints. At the rear, the villa was opened to the garden with full-height Crittall steel windows and doors, replacing the original weatherboards. Outdoors, the saltwater pool is edged with salvaged bricks from the historic Britomart Hotel site, framed by a Xanthe White–designed landscape.

Project scope: concept design, developed design, resource consent, building consent, on-site monitoring, interior design, bathroom and kitchen design, lighting planning, furniture and art selection.