| 83 “As a practice, we deliberately select lower-carbon and natural materials, prioritising local and recycled options alongside low-VOC materials that improve indoor air quality.” Karen Phelps Renovation showcases environmental focus Magdalena Garbarczyk: “The insulation is the difference between putting on an acrylic jumper in winter and a woollen jumper.” Photo: Tessa Clause ARCHITECTURE Fineline Architecture & Nelson Builders Fineline Architecture has carved out a niche by taking a unique approach to design. “Architecture has become extremely visual, and this is obviously important, but we have lost touch with how the spaces we live in can also improve so many other things such as health and wellbeing,” says practice co-director Magdalena Garbarczyk. “Our intention at Fineline Architecture has always been to undertake environmental architecture: what spaces feel like, as well as what they look like, prioritising wellbeing and health, that of the people who live there and the environment.” Founded in 2021 by Magdalena, and Mathew Hay, both registered architects, the practice has demonstrated this approach through a comprehensive renovation project in Richmond, Nelson. Magdalena says the clients, both artists and art collectors, purchased the 1959 home for its location overlooking the bay. Given the home’s north elevation, the stunning views became the project’s focal point, with the renovation opening up the main space for entertainment and creating a private master suite extension tucked into the garden. Magdalena says the project is not just about the house, with the garden and outdoor space, including bush, orchard and vegetable garden, playing a big part in the overall experience. “You can see all those different areas from different parts of the house. So the bathroom is connected to views of the garden but with privacy,” explains Magdalena. “The sunroom windows can be opened entirely, so people can feel like they are in a covered outdoor area.” She says the design creates varied experiences within the same house, balancing openness with intimate corners and nooks for retreat. The project includes a full mechanical ventilation system for optimal air quality, high-performance timber window joinery and Terra Lana wool insulation that dramatically improves thermal performance. “The insulation is the difference between putting on an acrylic jumper in winter and a woollen jumper,” explains Magdalena. “As a practice, we deliberately select lower-carbon and natural materials, prioritising local and recycled options alongside low-VOC materials that improve indoor air quality.” Structural challenges required close collaboration with engineers and builders, including foundation work and roof replacement – all the while ensuring the home retained its 1960s’ character. Magdalena’s background uniquely positions her for the practice’s approach. Born in Warsaw, raised in France, and educated in both France and The Netherlands, she gained experience at internationally acclaimed firms in Madrid and Rotterdam before moving to New Zealand in 2012. After nearly a decade teaching at Unitec School of Architecture, focusing on sustainability integration, she became a trained regenerative practitioner involved in large-scale urban regeneration projects. Mathew brings complementary expertise, with over 15 years of practice experience across diverse New Zealand projects. His furniture design and fabrication background ensure fine attention to detail. NELSON BAYS FLOORING XTRA 72 Oxford Street P: (03) 544 6000 MOTUEKA FLOORING XTRA 23 Old Wharf Road P: (03) 528 7530 www.flooringxtra.co.nz Proudly Supporting NelsonBuilders ITM, proud partner and supplier of Nelson Builders 36 Pascoe Street, Nelson | PH 548 5487 www.bui lding-suppl ies.co.nz Due for completion mid-2026, the hill house project demonstrates how renovation projects can create healthier homes through the right material selection, environmental considerations and spatial design, Magdalena says. “This project was a very collaborative process with the clients, who were very involved, the contractor and other tradeS “A successful project is all about teamwork.” $( p l u m b i n g • d r a i n a g e • E X C A V A T I O N 027 538 0009 • harley@unitedplumbing.co.nz
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=