102 | Thoughtful design brings multiple benefits The property, which spans just over 1000 square metres on a steep hillside, presented unique challenges. Parsonson Architects T T Karen Phelps ARCHITECTURE A Wellington architect’s innovative approach to building his own home has resulted in a project that seamlessly blends sustainable design with community living. The house, which recently won a 2024 Wellington Architecture Award, showcases how passive house principles can be incorporated into challenging hillside sites. Located at 69 Sar Street in Wadestown, the project was designed and built by Craig Burt, co-director of Parsonson Architects, alongside his wife Anganette. “We wanted a contemporary home that provided warm and inviting spaces for family living, but more importantly, one that responded thoughtfully to both the existing house and the community around it,” says Craig. The property, which spans just over 1000 square metres on a steep hillside, presented unique challenges. With the site being situated 30 metres from the street, accessibility influenced material selection and construction methods. “The house had to be built without heavy lifting equipment, which led us to predominantly use timber framing,” explains Craig. “Where retaining was required, we opted for light EPS blocks.” While not certified as a passive house, the project incorporates several key passive house principles. The structure exceeds minimum code requirements for insulation, and utilises an intello wrap and services cavity for air-tightness. A sophisticated Zehnder heat recovery mechanical ventilation system, featuring a high-efficiency counter-flow heat exchanger, recovers up to 95% of heat from outgoing air. The project prioritised low embodiment carbon materials where possible, limiting the use of carbon-intensive materials when they were necessary. “We also installed a 3.48kW solar system that supplies energy to the house, with additional power stored in an 8kW battery or fed back into the grid,” says Craig. What sets this project apart, he says, is its innovative approach to community integration. The design incorporates a stairway ‘spine’ that travels up the side of the site, connecting the new dwelling with the existing 1920s’ villa below. This thoughtful layout has also created unexpected social benefits, bringing together families from the existing dwelling and adjacent properties. “We built a bridge across our cable car line where our neighbours can access our trampoline,” explains Craig. “We now have joint pizza nights down in the courtyard.” The home’s material palette was carefully considered to reflect its context and use. The structure is predominantly clad in corrugated Colorsteel, chosen for its minimal maintenance requirements and cost-effectiveness. Western red cedar appears in areas where people are more likely to interact with the building, and where the form has been eroded. The landscape design, developed in collaboration with Philip Smith from O2 Landscapes, focuses on native plants typical of Wellington’s coastal environment. “We aim to create conditions where native plants can regenerate themselves,” says Craig. “We’ve also incorporated fruit trees and vegetable gardens, with food waste being returned to the ground through composting.” The project represents a growing trend within Parsonson Architects towards sustainable design. The firm, established in 1987 by Gerald Parsonson, has evolved into a multi-award-winning studio with a strong focus on environmental responsibility. It has recently completed several passive house projects, and employs a certified passive house designer. The practice is a Passive House Institute bronze member. Craig says the success of the Sar St house demonstrates how thoughtful architectural design can create homes that not only perform efficiently, but also foster community connections. “As urban density increases, this approach to residential architecture offers valuable lessons for future developments in Wellington and beyond.” paul@betteridge.co.nz ray@betteridge.co.nz www.betteridgeengineering.co.nz Proud to support Parsonson Architects matt@ awlessconstruction.co.nz | Call 027 232 1891 (06) 377 1331 | www.prestigejoinery.co.nz Proud to be a key supplier to Parsonson Architects KITCHEN & BATHROOM SPECIALISTS, WELLINGTON & WAIRARAPA WINNER — MASTER JOINER’S KITCHEN OF THE YEAR 2014 & 2018
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