| 85 ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN David O’Connor Design and Draughting: Distinct Construction PLUMBING DRAINLAYING GASFITTING EARTHWORKS WASTE WATER TREATMENT WATER PROTECTION SERVICES (06) 651 2200 Nick Mogford P: 027 534 1772 E: mogconelectrical@gmail.com Specialist electrical solutions for new builds including ducted heat pumps and solar installations. T T Kelly Deeks New home a showcase for smart design The replacement home sits on a compact 243sqm section. The demolition of a tired, 110-year-old home on one of Napier’s most historic streets is making way for a contemporary replacement that showcases smart design, careful planning, and a strong local construction team. David O’Connor Design and Draughting has recently seen construction begin on a new home on Hardinge Road, a project that has challenged designer, David O’Connor, to maximise every square metre of a tightly constrained coastal site, while delivering the lifestyle features his clients wanted most. The previous home remained occupied from mid-2024 until consent was granted, which happened recently, and construction was ready to begin. While the ageing dwelling held more than a century of history, David says it had reached the end of its usable life. “There was no saving it,” he says. “Parts of the floor were pulling away from the walls, and it had been altered so many times over the years that it was beyond repair.” Despite the demolition, a significant effort was made to preserve elements of the property. Flooring, timber, fixtures, fittings, and an original claw foot bath have all been salvaged for reuse in other projects, while a historic plaque bearing the home’s name, Waimarie, will be incorporated into the new residence. The replacement home sits on a compact 243sqm section in an area where development opportunities are increasingly limited by narrow sites and neighbouring properties. “The owners wanted a large entrance hall and a street-level deck where they could interact with people walking past,” David says. “Hardinge Road has a lot of pedestrian activity and they wanted to be part of that environment.” Those requirements helped shape a design that differs from many surrounding homes. While nearby properties often place living areas upstairs, the new home has its main living space on the ground floor. “The site is north facing with uninterrupted views, so we could achieve what they wanted without compromising outlook or sunlight.” The result is a 63sqm, open-plan living area within a three-bedroom home designed specifically for a couple whose children have left home, while still providing space for visiting grandchildren. Large expanses of glazing and open interior spaces required substantial structural engineering and steelwork. Construction is being undertaken by Distinct Construction’s Steven Jarvis, a builder David has known for many years. “Steven has extensive experience building in coastal environments and he is on-site every day. That hands-on involvement gives clients confidence and helps ensure quality throughout the build.” Having spent almost two decades as a builder before establishing David O’Connor Design and Draughting in 1997, David believes his construction background remains one of his greatest strengths. “Whenever I draw something, I am always thinking about how it will be built. That practical knowledge allows me to design creatively, while still producing plans that work in the real world.” Now approaching 50 years in the building industry, David says the experience he gained on the tools continues to influence every project he designs. “I still enjoy driving around and seeing the buildings I’ve designed. You feel like you are leaving a legacy and contributing something lasting to the community.”
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