76 | Solutions to flooding concerns Perspective Architecture works closely with engineers to assess the property, evaluate structural integrity, and design the new foundation system. Perspective Architecture T T Alexia Anderson ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN As Dunedin residents continue to recover from the aftermath of the October 2024 floods, one local company is helping homeowners regain long-term confidence in their properties. Perspective Architecture, led by Director and Architectural Designer Clint Gaby, is helping design practical, future-focused solutions for flood-prone homes, including the city’s many character villas built long before modern building standards. Clint says lifting a home is one of the most effective, and surprisingly feasible options for homeowners still dealing with low floor levels and repeated water damage. “Lifting houses should be considered by homeowners affected by the Dunedin floods because it is one of the most reliable longterm ways to reduce flood risk in areas where water is expected to return more often and at greater depths,” he says. With many homes in South Dunedin sitting only slightly above sea level, Clint says the idea is often overlooked simply because people don’t realise it can be done. The land itself can’t be raised, but the home can. And for many, the outcome is the difference between affordable insurance and ongoing vulnerability. While he says the price tag can feel like “a phone number,” lifting a home can restore full insurability and eliminate the cycle of costly, repeated repairs. The process is far more straightforward than many assume. Perspective Architecture works closely with engineers to assess the property, evaluate structural integrity, and design the new foundation system. Specialist lifters then raise the house often just millimetres at a time while new, compliant foundations are built underneath. “Overall, the process is precise, engineered, and controlled - more like performing careful surgery on a house than a full rebuild,” he says. One of the firm’s current projects highlights the benefits. A South Dunedin villa, owned by a builder, was struck hard by flooding in October of 2024. The home sat far too close to the ground, with poor ventilation and a floor level well below current flood-resilience expectations. During the design process, the team was able to design a full-width extension at the back, built at a consistent, compliant height. Clever design ensures the new addition blends seamlessly with the original character, while the work also allows the team to improve it overall, and dramatically enhance the home’s long-term performance. Beyond flood protection, lifting a home opens opportunities to modernise and redesign spaces that were previously constrained. Better indoor–outdoor flow, improved energy efficiency, upgraded services, and warmer, dryer living environments are all achievable once the house is elevated. “Essentially, lifting transforms a home from a static, vulnerable building into a resilient, flexible, and modernised asset, combining safety with design freedom,” Clint says. He says insurers are generally much more receptive to properties that have been lifted above predicted flood levels, particularly when supported with engineering documentation and council approvals. Looking ahead, Clint believes Dunedin’s renovation landscape is shifting. Homeowners are seeking resilience, not just repair. With prominent expertise in villas and heritage homes, Perspective Architecture is well positioned to guide them. “By combining practical risk management with thoughtful design, Perspective Architecture ensures homes are safe, functional, and ready for the challenges of a changing climate.” Personalised Insurance Advice with Care and Expertise Simplifying insurance to protect what ma ers most to you. Kerri Bridgman Insurance Broker - Director 021 716 677 kerri@kbrinsurance.co.nz kbrinsurance.co.nz
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