84 | ARCHITECTURE MC Architecture Studio Outstanding design set to impress Kim Newth The Parsons House is comprised of two wings that pivot around the heart of the home to give a sense of shelter from the south while opening up to the northern sun and sweeping views. A new two-storey home in Mt Pleasant that combines privacy with breath-taking views over the estuary and the city beyond has won MC Architecture Studio a place on the shortlist for the 2022 Canterbury Architecture Awards. Born and raised in Italy, the studio’s founder and principal architect Massimiliano (Max) Capocaccia grew up with a love of design and had his own architectural practice in Rome before moving to New Zealand in 2007. He then worked with Athfield Architects before establishing Christchurch’s award-winning MC Architecture Studio in 2009. Max’s work has received international accolades but he says there is nothing quite like local recognition from peers in the industry. “It’s important for brand recognition and gives more confidence to our clients once they see we’ve been shortlisted – and hopefully later, once we have an award.” “Of course, these particular clients have been on a long journey with us and it’s fantastic for them too.” In this instance, the homeowner - Nick and Marie Parsons, of Parsons Construction – was also the builder. Having worked with Max on a number of projects since 2016, they were familiar with his practice and trusted him to hone a creative design solution for their Mt Pleasant site. Part of an old quarry, the land had been heavily excavated in the past. As well, a previous house on the site had to be demolished after the Canterbury earthquakes and this all created logistical and planning difficulties. Given the absolutely stunning views though, Max says the site presented more opportunities than challenges. The Parsons House is comprised of two wings that pivot around the heart of the home to give a sense of shelter from the south while opening up to the northern sun and sweeping views. Downstairs access is via the garage, with the lower level also holding bedrooms and an office, with stairs connecting up to the main living room and master bedroom. An entrance bridge, cleverly referencing the estuary pier, creates an intriguing main entry point. From the street, it passes over mature bush to reach the home’s front timber door. “Once that door opens, you’re drawn north by the incredible framed estuary views and the sculptural timber ceiling in the living space that reaches upward to the central skylight.” The converging timber batten ceiling, along with the crisply geometric glass and steel balustrade on the internal stairwell, are striking elements in this home. “It’s hard to compete with the beautiful view so the idea was to create elements of interest inside the house using sculptural forms. “The timber battens also add acoustic insulation, while the skylight provides thermal control; the lower lying south windows and the skylight create a chimney effect that helps keep the home cool in summer.” PTL are your next Structural and Fire engineering team. We offer professional consulting services for residential, commercial and industrial buildings by combining state-of-the-art technology and expert specialist engineers. PTL work with architects, developers and construction companies to provide innovative and economical structural and fire solutions, as quickly as possible. info@ptlnz.com | (03) 925 9173 | 10/357 Madras Street, Christchurch, 8013 Close cooperation between architect and builder was a hallmark of this project. Max says Nick’s input was invaluable in shaping and determining the final form and key design details. “This is not something that could have been constructed by many other builders. I know these guys well; they are very capable and deliver a very high standard of workmanship.” The choice of exterior metal tray profile, complemented with a plaster finish on the lower level, visually anchors this home to its site. Vertical timber cladding at the entrance and northern outdoor living area lends softness and warmth, flowing through to the interior. Designed for year-round comfort, this Mt Pleasant beauty is wonderfully warm in winter thanks to underfloor heating, a high level of insulation and controlled thermal gain. Nick and Marie are delighted with their new home design. “To say that we are thrilled with the result, and the way that Max and the team worked with us, is an understatement because we just love our home.” “Once that door opens, you’re drawn north by the incredible framed estuary views and the sculptural timber ceiling in the living space that reaches upward to the central skylight.”
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