78 | ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN Vector Architecture/eHaus T T Bernadette Cooney Professional skills align on complex build With meticulous attention to detail and a firm commitment to sustainable, energy-efficient homes, Palmerston North architectural designer Brendan Johnstone of Vector Architecture, and eHaus Manawatu are collaborating on a new, two-level, four-bedroom family home currently going up in a prestigious subdivision in Hokowhitu, adjacent to Manawatu Golf Club. The project is being built by eHaus Manawatu, a trusted collaborator of Brendan’s, who established his sole architectural practice, Vector Architecture, in 2020. “eHaus Manawatu worked on a previous high-end build in the same subdivision, and their attention to detail aligns well with my own,” says Brendan. “This current build isn’t a certified passive home, but it’s certainly a high-performing one. With this project, we used a hybrid membrane warm-roof system, layering insulation both between the structure and continuous sheet above it to eliminate thermal bridging. “We’ve incorporated cutting-edge Thermal-Heart Centrafix window joinery from APL Window Solutions to enhance thermal efficiency.” The Kanuka Drive home will be a striking example of modern architecture infused with passive house principles and technologies. It also features hydronic heating and cooling, a system that relies on circulating water heated via an air-to-water heat pump, to provide radiant heating and cooling. “The hydronic heating and cooling were modelled to work out precisely where we needed to heat and cool the home,” says Brendan. “This helps balance some of the solar gain achieved through the predominant use of ceramic tiles through the whole ground floor.” Large soffits and automated celestial windows are used strategically to reduce the impact of harsh summer sun on the 396sqm home, which pushes the limits of its 600sqm section. “It’s a lot of home for its site, and designed to cater to multiple generations of the client’s family,” says Brendan. “Accordingly, we’ve incorporated an internal elevator between floors and adhered to specific cultural requirements, including the placement and orientation of a temple within the dwelling.” The highly technical and structurally complex design incorporates 20 tonnes of structural steel, necessary for large spans and cantilevered sections of schist cladding. Wanaka schist cladding is featured both externally and internally, including a dramatic schist fireplace wall with a linear gas fire. The home features a combination of three cladding materials: aluminium composite panels, Wanaka schist, and Rockcote’s lightweight concrete facade system, each selected for their low-maintenance durability. A mineral swimming pool with integrated water feature is also built into the exterior landscaping. Inside, the layout is strategically divided, with the primary living spaces and master suite on the ground floor for ease of access, while additional bedrooms, a media room, and an entertainment bar occupy the first floor. A floating staircase serves as a central architectural feature. Brendan stays involved in the construction monitoring phase, ensuring quality control and supporting both the client and contractor. A Manawatu local with 17 years’ architectural design experience, including multiple years working within commercial development, Brendan Johnstone of Vector Architecture brings precision and passion to every project, valuing and honouring the client relationship every step of the way. Proudly supporting Vector Architecture www.qualityplumbingsolutions.co.nz 06 354 0880 o ice@qualityplumbingsolutions.co.nz With over 120 years combined experience, we have the solutions to all of your Plumbing, Gas and Drainage needs.
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