62 | Clarity underlines successful renovation The design has stripped the building back to its bones, replacing the old cladding with timber ply and batten, installing all new joinery and adding a new roof. ARCHITECTURE Four Walls Architecture & Keith Hayward Builders T T Karen Phelps “We don’t overdo things – we pare back until we find the essence of the project. We spend a lot of time finding the most concise way to design.” On the beachfront at Pauanui, a once-faded 1980s’ holiday home is being re-imagined into a light-filled, timeless retreat, a project that perfectly reflects the design philosophy of Four Walls Architecture, the Auckland-based practice behind it. Founded by Amy Hendry in 2010 and joined by Claire Paterson three years later, the boutique firm is known for its thoughtful, refined approach to residential design. Between them, Amy and Claire bring more than 40 years of experience, supported by two highly skilled team members, with Amy and Claire’s partnership central to the practice’s success. “Two minds are better than one when designing something,” says Amy. “We critique each other’s work and it leads to a much stronger design.” Together, they focus on crafting architecture that is clear, calm and enduring. “We come with a clear, skilled eye,” says Amy. “That is visible in the finished product. Every project we do has a clarity and calmness about it. We don’t overdo things – we pare back until we find the essence of the project. We spend a lot of time finding the most concise way to design.” The Pauanui renovation, currently mid-construction, epitomises that ethos. The clients approached the practice wanting to revitalise their classic beachfront property, a single-storey plaster-clad home with a mezzanine bedroom and detached garage. “The thing that really appealed to the clients is that the lines are lovely – it has a really classic and clear geometry, so what we had to start with was great,” explains Amy. The design has stripped the building back to its bones, replacing the old cladding with timber ply and batten, installing all new joinery and adding a new roof. Inside, the downstairs has been completely re-planned to create an open, flowing layout. “We’ve opened up the living, kitchen and dining areas so the spaces connect naturally,” says Amy. “The existing cathedral ceiling in the living room now feels expansive and everything links seamlessly to the courtyard and beach.” One of the key design goals has been to better integrate the home with its coastal environment. “For us, it’s been about putting the ‘beach’ back into it and celebrating each element of the building,” says Amy. “We’ve added verandahs, opened up views by removing some posts, and designed big, louvred sliding shutters along the front of the house. These provide privacy and shelter from the sun while still allowing light and breeze through.” As the house sits right on the beachfront, balancing openness with privacy was essential. “It was important to provide layers between the public beach space and the inside of the house,” explains Amy. “The shutters, verandahs and courtyard create a nice sense of boundaries between the house, footpath and beach.” The result is a design that feels relaxed yet highly considered, true to Four Walls Architecture’s philosophy of precision and restraint. The practice is managing both the exterior and interior design, working closely with Keith Hayward Builders. “The builder was the client’s choice and we’ve been very happy with their work – they’ve been great to deal with,” says Amy. The homeowners have also played a key role in shaping the project. “She has a beautiful eye for interiors and a strong idea of what she wants,” says Amy. “It’s been a really collaborative process.” Scott Webb: 027 355 3675 Timber floor specialists offering expert craftsmanship in all aspects of timber flooring — from installation and sanding to finishing and repairs.
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