The brief for this project was to provide a series of new spaces within an extension to compliment an existing heritage cottage and provide a modern living experience that integrates with the site and the cottage. The scale and bulk of the new extension was a key consideration. The density of existing houses on the street is relatively high and small in scale.

It was decided the existing cottage would house visitor accommodation and a new extension to the rear would house new living, utility and kitchen spaces as well as a master bedroom suite. The outcome is a series of new spaces that link into the cottage via the existing Hall which in turn forms a clear circulation axis right into the middle of the site. Internal and external spaces flow to either side.

The site is long and narrow with views to the rear. Neighboring houses are close to the boundaries therefore discreet view shafts have been integrated to provide views longitudinally through the site to ensure privacy to the living spaces.

A simple palette of materials has been utilised. Black steel cladding and roofing, matching the profile of the existing cottage, recycled native timber which links to the existing fabric of the cottage and black steel.

NZIA Southern Architecture Award 2021 - Housing - Alterations and Additions

Citation:

'The cellular rooms of this small cottage have been respectfully retained by adding further space to the rear of the site. A pre-existing central passage has been extended, with interior and exterior living spaces opening off it, while a secluded bedroom above is sympathetically integrated into the overall composition. Detailing of ply finishes and cabinetry is meticulous throughout, further emphasising the intimate scale of the design.'