Harbourview Alterations

This three level house in Khandallah really only had one thing going for it when the owners purchased it – its fabulous views across Wellington harbour! The original 1950’s house layout had suffered from a number of alterations and additions over its years, creating cellular spaces and an incoherent layout. Our aim was to turn this into a five bedroom house that suited modern family living, and maximised the amazing views through the house. Rationalising the existing split-stair internal access was a big focus of the design. A central “atrium” space was created right through the middle of the three floors, unifying the internal access, and creating a connection point right through the three levels. The openness of the stair allows light and views to enter the heart of the home. Another focus was opening up the top level to create a modern family living space with zones for different activities. The open-plan kitchen, situated between the kids play space and the dining area, is the hub for the family, and has sightlines back across the stair atrium to the front door. The “bridge” across the stair atrium was another important feature providing connection across the two sides of the house and ensures the stair acts as a connecting element, rather than a separating one.