Hidden Retreat Renovation by Topcat Architecture

ArchiPro Project Summary - A thoughtful renovation of a sun-drenched 1980's home, enhancing indoor-outdoor flow and maximizing views across the Harbour while preserving existing structures and collaborating closely with clients for a successful transformation.

Title:: Hidden Retreat Renovation
Architectural Designer:: Topcat Architecture
Category:: Residential/; Renovations and Extensions
Photographers:: Caleb Chan Photography

Our clients have occupied this 1980's home for many years and it was time for a refresh. The site is showered in all-day sun, surrounded by native bush and has direct views across the Harbour. The challenge was to maximize these assets and open up internal spaces, while utilizing as much of the existing house as possible.

To draw the outdoors further into the home we enlarged selected existing windows and replaced others with new units in the same openings. Walls and doors were removed and reconfigured to allow for a more modern, open-plan way of living with that quintessential Kiwi indoor-outdoor flow. Each window captures a different outlook which changes hour by hour.

Due to challenging site access, the structural design had to be carefully considered to accommodate for transport and delivery. We worked closely with the Builder and Engineer to ensure major structural elements could be broken down in to manageable pieces and assembled on site by the Builder.

Our fantastic clients had a vision of what they wanted to achieve, and the success of this renovation was the result of a close collaboration with them.

Native birds visit this site daily, and their songs compliment the warm glow of this sun-bathed home.

Builder: Peak Building Limited

Photographer: Caleb Chan Photography

Project Gallery

Views and Engagement

Professionals used

Topcat ArchitectureArchitectural Designers

Topcat Architecture

Architectural Designers

Wellington

Topcat Architecture. Topcat Architecture is a family-owned practice based in the Kapiti Coast. With projects nationwide of varying sizes and complexities, we cater to all needs. We offer Architectural and Planning services for residential, industrial and commercial work. Our range of practical and theoretical knowledge allows us to design solutions which look good, function well, and piece together smoothly. The team really does have hands on, hammer and nails experience as well as academic qualifications. Whether it's a kitchen wall removal or a large block development, we can take care of it. We prioritize listening to our clients, believing the best outcome is when clients are excited about a project and once completed, wouldn’t change a thing. We don't tend to follow any particular style, instead developing a design solution which is shaped in response to the site and our clients own aspirations. Call today to discuss how we can help bring your vision to life.