68 | Enduring qualities in character homes While the home presents as a classic villa with strong street presence, it is in fact a new build. Callidus Architects T T Karen Phelps ARCHITECTURE For Mona Hurnen, founder and director of Wellington- and Wairarapa-based practice Callidus Architects, the focus on older homes was never accidental. With around 20 years’ experience as a qualified architect, Mona has long been drawn to the charm, proportions and craftsmanship of heritage buildings. Having lived in and renovated character homes herself, she recognised a gap in the market for an architectural practice dedicated to working with, rather than against, the past and started her practice in 2010. “There is a due respect owed to character homes in New Zealand,” Mona says. “They have a presence, a scale and a relationship to the street that we can learn a great deal from.” That philosophy underpins every project the practice undertakes. Whether it is an extension to an existing villa, or a complete rebuild inspired by historic detailing, the aim is always integration rather than imitation. “What we really like doing is not being scared of interacting with the house or original features,” explains Mona. “This might mean replicating original detailing, or introducing modern detailing, and that results in true integration to give a seamless result.” Clients are guided through this process in a highly personal way. “We try and take the client on a journey from start to finish with the same person in the practice,” says Mona. “We focus on bespoke projects and attention to detail.” That attention has been recognised at the highest level. A recent Kelburn project received a Regional Mitre 10 Craftsmanship Award, a Regional Gold Award and a place in the national Top 100 at the 2025 Master Builders House of the Year Awards. While the home presents as a classic villa with strong street presence, it is in fact a new build, designed after it became clear the original structure could not be renovated. Favourite elements of the original house were carefully reinterpreted, including curved window and door detailing, interior trims and panelling. “It was about making sure all the subtrades were working well together to deliver that high level of finish,” says Mona. “Communication on projects such as this is key.” Another award-winning project in Eastbourne a decade earlier involved a bold but respectful intervention and resulted in a Gold award. Half of the existing building was demolished to meet modern living requirements, while the original two-storey structure was retained and extended into a double-wing Arts and Craftsstyle home, complete with separate guest accommodation and extensive landscaping. Interiors, colours and planting were all designed as part of a holistic approach, with a strong preference for New Zealand native species. Email. office@projexelectrical.co.nz Web. www.projexelectrical.co.nz Proudly working alongside Callidus Architects Residential, Commercial & Light Industrial Work in the Wellington Region. PROFESSIONAL CREDIBLE QUALITY www.qpgltd.co.nz | 021 250 3592 | office@qpgltd.co.nz The practice also collaborates with small development company, Caco Collective, which Mona owns with a friend, to deliver higher-quality infill housing that enhances existing neighbourhoods rather than eroding their character. Central to this thinking is an appreciation of how older homes engage with the street. Mona says traditional features, such as verandahs, front steps, gardens and gates, create semi-private spaces that encourage interaction and community. “In contrast to modern designs that prioritise garages and driveways, these elements foster a stronger connection between people and place,” she says. Mona says Callidus Architects is deliberately choosing not to grow. T he intention is to remain a small, bespoke practice, supported by a long-standing team and focused on creating homes and spaces with enduring character.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=