Architect – Bevin + Slessor Architects Ltd (Wellington)

Build time – 11 months

This home was built on a rise and right beside the Heathcote river. The site was a 1.8metre deep cut out with engineered foundations to suit the location. A 4 bedroom 2-storey dwelling made up of timber frame and steel construction. We constructed timber pole retaining walls which made the access way into this property. This house had a full cedar weatherboard cladding system with very detailed negative detailing around the windows and doors. The inside feature of the house was the birch ply wall in the hallway with a ‘secret’ pivot door into the master bedroom. The designer kitchen and oak flooring throughout the house reflected well with the open plan living designed well for all day sun.

In the words of the owners:

“We have been in our house for 8 weeks and are loving the experience. We are very impressed with the quality of the build and the craftsmanship your team demonstrated throughout the project. The detailing is superb and the finishing is to a standard that fully complements the great design. We really appreciate the attention to the finer points of the finish, and the commitment to excellence in construction which characterized the job from the start to its finish.

Equally important to us though, was the manner in which you and your team interacted with us over the course of your build. Your communication was excellent, as was your willingness to adapt when we asked for changes, and your patience in explaining what was possible and why you were carrying out construction and fit-out in particular ways. In that regard, we really appreciated the way you managed all of the sub-contractors. It was clear to us that there was a lot of mutual respect and professionalism among the wider team, and that you all worked very well together to deliver such a great outcome.

At the start of the build we were both quite anxious about what lay ahead. However, we found the entire process to be positive and enjoyable. Your guys were smart, industrious and skillful, and were obviously keen to make sure we had a great experience.  Thanks to all of you for a great house and a wonderful journey.”

 – Best Regards, Vickie and Ken.