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This classic family bungalow in Westmere had already undergone renovation work but in a rather hum drum fashion. The kitchen, dining and living areas opened to the rest of the house and the bedrooms and bathroom predictably came off these spaces. All very liveable but not exactly inspiring.

With two rapidly growing kids came the need to create more space, including a separate second living room and adjoining private adult suite, to be slightly removed from the rest of the house. 

The brief also asked for an overhaul of the fairly small backyard area where the family does the majority of their living.  A pool, lawn, garden, deck and built in pizza oven were required. 

With limited land area the design needed to be a study in proportion and space, accomodating the requisite rooms without becoming too big for the site and still incorporating the backyard living area.  

The new master bedroom suite extends towards the rear of the site on the western boundary and opens to the garden via full height bi-fold doors. Cedar clad and stained black, this “stealth-fighter” form is faceted along its walls and roofline in a dramatic contrast to the white painted weatherboards and traditional gable of the original.

The form which is stepped down, further  accentuating the feeling of separation, flows into the bungalow proper via a cedar wrap, blurring the junction between the old and new and incorporates a raised timber deck and built in pizza oven and outdoor kitchen bench.

The affiliated second living space and built in office opens on two sides ensuring plenty of sun and an outlook onto the hidden garden of lush native planting on the boundary, giving privacy from the western neighbour.

A kitchen overhaul created room for a butlers pantry and separate laundry and storage space. White cabinetry contrasts nicely with a black kitchen bench which is wrapped with timber at both ends, tying into the timber-lined ceiling in the dining area and corridor link to the new suite.

A spacious family bathroom, private ensuite and plunge pool complete the brief and this family home is well and truly ready to accommodate the needs of this soon to be teenage family.

Dorrington Atcheson Architects
Auckland
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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.