PARAPARAUMU HOME

The brief for this project detailed the demolition of an existing house and the construction of a substantial new home, with separate guest accommodation, a swimming pool and spa, and the conversion of an existing garage to a workshop and changing area. The owners wanted a traditionally styled home with substantial use of Oamaru stone.

The site is bordered by the Paraparaumu Golf Course on two sides and adjoining neighbours on the others. It was important that the design and position of the new dwellings protect the views of the neighbouring properties.

The natural features of the site include a moderate slope down to a stream running through the property at one end and three protected trees.The house was designed to work with these features and provide private sheltered outdoor areas as well as less private areas while still maintaining an outlook to the golf course.

The home and outdoor spaces had to be robust and child friendly. Privacy was created by shielding outdoor areas with buildings and screens or planting. The living areas were positioned to allow views outside to the children's play areas and the golf course beyond as well as allowing easy access to the swimming pool and outdoor entertaining areas.

The main home has variations in volume as it steps down the site, culminating in the main living area which has a 6.5m ceiling height. Large open plan areas allow easy flow and sight lines to the ground floor. The study can be closed off and there is a separate rumpus room. Four bedrooms and bathroom spaces are located on the first floor with a gallery and library space overlooking the living area below.

The interior aesthetic is focused towards providing pockets of intimacy within the large living areas to the ground floor and emphasizing the perception of space in the smaller and more private first floor areas. This is achieved through the use of classic neutral wall colours throughout and rich layered textiles for drapery and furniture. Wall panelling was designed for the living spaces to provide relief to the large wall faces.

Combined with the stained timber flooring and a large open fire creates a feeling of a warm and intimate living space. The first floor areas have been treated similarly and feature coved ceilings and warm light colour tonings. The idea of finishing the interior of the home to provide an elegant aesthetic and keep the decorative elements fuss free to suit a young family has resulted in a timeless interior to suit the formal style of the home.

This home offers boutique accommodation which can be viewed at:www.fairwaycottage.com