Godden Cres
By Dorrington Atcheson Architects
This classic modern house is designed around a number of mature trees, in a park-like setting. The house is designed as a collection of blocks linked by a flat-roofed element, housing the entry and gallery. The gallery space leads you past an interior courtyard and pool and on to the main living area, where a strong connection to the garden is maintained via large glass sliders on both sides.
The kitchen, living, dining and outdoor room open on one side to the east-facing garden, and on the other to the pool courtyard. With the sliders open the courtyard becomes an extension of the main living and gallery, connecting this space seamlessly to the rest of the house.
Strong axes are formed from the entry down the length of the gallery to the garden beyond and along the length of the pool to the courtyard garden and spa area. The interior design was handled by Debra Gardien, artfully working in with the architecture.
The front yard and entrance were designed so a mature Pururi tree could be retained. Two garage blocks with guest spaces above each, create a very private façade. The space between the two blocks creates the entry space.
The main bedroom suite has its own access via stairs from the entry gallery. Glass sliders can be opened for uninterrupted views over the pool and courtyard to the city and harbor beyond. The gallery is divided into two – public and private, the private hallway can be closed down and links the living area to the children’s bedrooms and service areas.
A sunken lounge concealed behind the kitchen is a deliberate contrast to the openness and light of the main living area. Here subdued light, plush furnishings and carpeting provide a cozy snug to retreat to. The window providing a view of the garden echoes a similar window in the butler’s pantry.
Materials used include stone cladding over concrete block and stained vertical cedar shiplap weatherboards, black powder coated aluminium window frames and Colorsteel tray roofing and membrane roofing.
Awards
NZIA Local Award for Residential Architecture (2013)
Best Design Awards - Spatial Design - Residential - Bronze (2013)
Photographer
Emma-Jane Hetherington
Products used in
Godden Cres
Professionals used in
Godden Cres
More projects from
Dorrington Atcheson Architects
About the
Professional
Twenty years of experience coupled with an enduring spirit of youthful enthusiasm is the yin-yang balance that makes Dorrington Atcheson Architects a team that has produced so many award-winning buildings for their clients.
While every project calls for a fresh eye and an innovative approach, directors Tim Dorrington and Sam Atcheson also draw upon their considerable experience within the New Zealand marketplace.
Specialising in residential design, but with a proven track record in retail and office environments, this boutique company has quietly made their mark on the built environment, winning several NZIA awards.
Their methodology is highly collaborative, so while DAA favours contemporary design that takes its cue from mid-century modernism, its role is not to dictate but to engage with the requirements of home-owners and clients. Responding to site, budget and idiosyncrasies is all in a day’s work.
This honest approach is reflected in the materiality of their buildings where natural products are celebrated. Dorrington Atcheson Architects design functional spaces with measured proportions, a simplicity of structure and just enough surprise to delight.