28 | ARCHITECTURE Holmes Architecture The perfect partners in realising their dream Located on an 830sqm section in Newlands, the couple was inspired by a developer friend to make the most of their spacious backyard. T T Kelly Deeks For a couple committed to building their own rental property investment portfolio in Wellington, partnering with Holmes Architecture and Eagle Eye Construction has proved the perfect partners in maximising their site, their investment, and realising their dream. Holmes Architecture, an award-winning firm, is renowned for its innovative, eco-friendly designs that harmonize with the landscape, utilize high-quality materials, and cater to clients’ lifestyles. Specializing in custom residential and commercial architecture across various budgets, the firm follows a thorough design process that addresses everything from initial briefs and budgets to site and environmental considerations. Their projects leverage the latest building technologies to create beautiful, functional, and efficient spaces. Located on an 830sqm section in Newlands, the couple was inspired by a developer friend to make the most of their spacious backyard. They embraced the idea of adding two new townhouses while keeping their existing home, allowing them to stay on-site during construction and monitor the progress. The site presented challenges, being moderately steep and unusually triangular shaped, with the widest point along the street frontage and narrowing as it follows the contours up the hill. A significant amount of earthworks was needed, involving the removal of about 500 cubic meters of dirt to prepare for the new homes. Holmes Architecture conducted a pre-design report to help the clients visualize what could comfortably fit on the site. “Initially, we planned for two identical two-bedroom homes, each with a total floor area of 96sqm over two levels,” explains James Burke, senior project lead at Holmes Architecture. “However, after many discussions and researching the local market, we realized there was a greater demand for three-bedroom homes. By redesigning the upper floor and slightly extending the footprint, we were able to add a third bedroom and an ensuite to each home, increasing the total footprint to 62sqm, bringing the overall floor area of each unit to 124sqm.” Built for the rental market, these homes exceed the Building Code and Healthy Homes standards. The upper floor features three bedrooms, a main bathroom, and an ensuite, offering a pleasant view over Newlands. The ground floor includes an additional powder room, laundry, open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area that opens to a spacious, sheltered and private northwest-facing outdoor space. The street-facing elevation has minimal windows to maintain privacy and create a sense of intrigue about what lies behind the façade. Due to the topography of the site, one house sits 1.6m higher than the other, so this gave Holmes Architecture an opportunity to do something special with the roof lines to comply with the district plan rules. “The simple rectangular roofs are twisted on a 5 degree fall from the highest corner to the lowest corner, adding a visual interest from the street. Despite its complexity, Eagle Eye Construction executed the design flawlessly,” says James. The roofs also feature large overhangs for sun protection, enhancing their impressive street presence. Eagle Eye Construction was among a select few builders recommended by Holmes Architecture, and James was pleased they secured the contract. “We’ve collaborated on several projects, so they understand our design approach and are great to work with. The build is nearly complete, and the results are fantastic. We look forward to seeing where our clients’ journey as new developers will take them next.” 027 528 1380 simon@eeconstruction.co.nz www.madsen-green.co.nz | Office@madsen-green.co.nz Call us today 027 785 8562 CONTRACTING • Driveways • Garage Slabs • Drainage • Landscaping • Site Clearing • House Slabs • Footpaths • Water Work • Fencing • Roofing • Scaffolding • Building 022 618 5079 www.rightchoicedecorator.co.nz info@rightchoicedecorator.co.nz Choose our professional team of painters and decorators to transform your Wellington home! Proudly supporting Holmes Architecture & Eagle Eye Construction
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