| 93 T T Kelly Deeks Renovation offers style, space and a garden Photos: Graham Warman Photography SUR Architecture “Everyone was very connected throughout the process, and during construction we had excellent communication when anything had to be discussed or decided upon.” ARCHITECTURE A recent renovation project by Dunedin’s SUR Architecture illustrates the benefits of close collaboration with clients and contractors in meeting the brief with style, functionality, and the best use of space and resources. A comprehensive renovation to an existing home on a small site at beachside St Clair, this project was designed to make its downsizing owners more comfortable in their smaller space. “They wanted to create a special outdoor area because they loved to garden, but they didn’t have a big garden anymore,” says SUR Architecture director Maria Callau. “They wanted their home to be simple and easy to live in, and still have everything they needed.” SUR Architecture delivered an open-plan lounge, kitchen, and dining area with a window-seat and a fireplace connecting to the garden at the front via a large covered porch, and at the back via two sets of sliding doors opening on to bamboo decking. Raked double-height ceilings in the living area allow for plenty of glazing to capture that garden view and fill the space with all-day sunlight as it travels around the corner of the home. Two outdoor areas give this couple choices in their journey from indoors to outdoors. The deck at the back provides a private and sheltered option, while the front of the home has a low bamboo fence to help this community-minded couple connect with passing neighbours. The large covered porch provides ample space to fit a family-sized dining table, and the whole family, at Christmas and other events. Maria specified high levels of insulation in her design, and with solar panels making the most of the sun while it’s there and radiators in every room, this home stays cosy and comfortable even during the harshest Otago winter. Maria had to take care with window specification and placement in this severe climate. The connection to the garden was ever-important and the windows provide optimised views to key outdoor areas, while the homeowners’ privacy is protected on this site, which has two driveways on either side and two homes at its rear. The collaboration on the project started at the beginning. “We had a really good conversation. I found out all of the things that were important and got a very clear brief, then built up our teams so we had everyone we needed to create this on site,” Maria says. “Everyone was very connected throughout the process, and during construction we had excellent communication when anything had to be discussed or decided upon. “Our team offered their experience and advice and we took the time to make sure everyone was happy with every stage of the project.” The result was a very smooth-running project and a really special home which is perfect for its owners. Communication is a strength for SUR Architecture, alongside its optimal designs and its focus on efficiency and keeping the budget down. Maria and the team at SUR Architecture advocate for functional, efficient homes that work well with their environment. “A little square box can be very efficient and simple, but we also want to create something special, something that feels like your home. We respond to the brief by creating beautiful spaces for our clients to enjoy.” SUR Architecture delivered an open-plan lounge, kitchen, and dining area with a windowseat and a fireplace connecting to the garden at the front via a large covered porch. 03 477 0115 www.leithjoinery.co.nz KITCHENS - LAUNDRIES - BESPOKE JOINERY - STAIRS TIMBER DOORS & WINDOWS - COMMERCIAL JOINERY Proud to work with SUR Architecture w w w . d s b u i l d i n g . c o . n z Call Dallas on 021 223 0810
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