Split House

Restored villa facade with crimson sash windows and white picket fence

Close-up of scalloped red-and-white fluted roof cladding

This warm family home reflects a contemporary way of living together for a young family, while responding to the geological and topographical character of the site.

Our clients loved the existing villa, but needed a home that performed to a modern standard, and provided space for their growing family.

Walnut-lined kitchen with mustard banquette and red-framed windows

Lofty spaces are enclosed with a dynamic split-hip roof, sarked in cedar and punctuated with high-level windows and a faceted timber screen.

Timber slat screen beside a walnut wall-mounted globe light

Cedar-lined kitchen nook with sunken mustard bench seating

Cedar ceiling living room with terracotta window seat cushion

Pink-striped skylight glowing beneath an angled cedar ceiling

Angled timber batten balustrade against blue sky, villa extension

Red-framed entry door beneath slatted timber pergola walkway

Walnut-lined kitchen and dining space under diagonal cedar ceiling

Kitchen island with yellow banquette seating and red window trim

Open-plan kitchen and dining area with green pendant lights

Red-framed bay window seat overlooking neighbouring rooftops

Walnut built-in shelving with leather sofa and reading nook

Split-level living area with cedar ceiling and gallery wall

Kids' bunk room with geometric wallpaper and personalised door

Clawfoot bathtub beneath timber sash window, pink tile trim

Awards

NZIA Auckland Architecture Award Winner - Housing Alterations and Additions

Designers Institute of New Zealand Best Design Award - Gold Award in the Residential Interiors Category

Dulux International Colour Award – Commendation

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Split House is an extensive renovation of a traditional Sandringham villa with a contemporary addition ‘out back’.

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The addition – which provides a new kitchen, bathroom, living room, media room, dining room and even a purpose-designed ‘G&T nook’ – steps down through three split levels to create an easy connection between living spaces and landscape. In each space, the bespoke built-in walnut cabinetry gives shape and form to more intimate spaces.

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The lofted ceiling, enclosed under a dynamic split hip roof, is sarked in cedar and punctuated with high-level windows and a faceted timber screen. The height of the volume calls through the ceiling height of the original structure. Beneath the primary living spaces, a cellar and bike workshop were also incorporated.

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The retained fabric of the original villa was restored using best practice heritage principles – with environmental performance improved with new insulation, central heating, rainwater harvesting system, grey water system and an electrical upgrade ready for solar installation.

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