86 | A masterful transformation W2 Architecture brings architectural designers and structural engineers together under one roof to deliver efficient, tailored designs. W2 Architecture & Matt Harrison Construction T T Kelly Deeks ARCHITECTURE W2 Architecture and Structural Engineering is showcasing the success of its collaborative design approach with the transformation of a large, earthquake-damaged home in Merivale, Christchurch. The project highlights the consultancy’s expertise in major residential alterations, combining architectural creativity with pragmatic engineering problem-solving. W2 engineering director Stuart Winterbourn says the firm was brought into the project early, working directly with the homeowner, then engaging Matt Harrison Construction to deliver their design. The client relationship already existed, and the couple had sought Stuart’s advice when they were looking to buy the house. “It had earthquake damage, so I gave them guidance on how we could fix that, and subsequently on how we could bring the home more in line with how they wanted to live in it,” he says. Built in 1992, the original home of about 900sqm featured multiple disconnected rooms and an internal swimming pool. The owners needed the damage repaired, and wanted a modern, open-plan family area with better flow between living spaces and outdoor amenities. Stuart says the room that connected to the internal pool enclosure presented the biggest structural issue. “That was really where the earthquake damage was difficult to repair. So we demolished the connecting room to the pool, separating the pool house from the main structure, and that pretty much solved the earthquake remediation.” The pool was re-imagined as part of an outdoor living environment, separated from the house by a light-filled atrium with a glazed roof and lush plantings. The new space makes use of the existing arched forms, blending old and new while strengthening visual connections between interior and exterior spaces. “You walk through the atrium to get to the pool and it’s really beautiful,” Stuart says. “It takes advantage of the original architecture, gives the house a more contemporary living experience, and floods the new family area with natural light.” Inside, walls were removed to open and reposition the kitchen into a connected kitchen-dining zone flowing directly to outdoor areas. The old living room space became a sports and entertainment room with a bar and full-size billiard table, supporting both family living and hosting. Stuart says the shift away from compartmentalised rooms to large connected spaces was central to the concept. Proudly supporting W2 Architecture Ltd & Matt Harrison Construction FULL PAINTING & DECORATING SERVICES FOR YOUR RESIDENTIAL OR COMMERCIAL PROJECTS Need your tiles professionally installed? Call us on 027 611 5422. YOUR DREAM HOME DESERVES THE BEST YOU DESERVE ROMA TILING. We can give you a free, no-obligation measure and quote. All our work is guaranteed. www.romatiling.co.nz info@romatiling.co.nz He credits the clients for being engaged and decisive, each contributing ideas within their areas of interest. He says the final concept surprised the clients in the best way. “They’ve done major renovations before, but weren’t expecting to see what we came back with. “It was great to surprise them with something that works for their family.” Stuart also praises builder Matt Harrison for his practical approach. “Especially on renovation projects, where things are not always what you think they’re going to be,” he says. “Matt is a great builder and very pragmatic.” Established in 2007, W2 Architecture brings architectural designers and structural engineers together under one roof to deliver efficient, tailored designs for residential and commercial alterations and new builds. Stuart says the Merivale project embodies that philosophy. “Whether it’s a budget-focused investment or a multi-million-dollar dream home, our goal is the same. “We design beautiful, efficient buildings and make the journey as easy and enjoyable as possible.”
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