202618-Ngāhinapōuri RENOVATION

Project Introduction The purpose of this initial concept stage is to explore how the existing home can evolve to better support modern family living while carefully balancing function, aesthetics, and value. Rather than focusing solely on the appearance of the building, this stage investigates how the various spaces relate to one another, how the home is approached and experienced, and where investment will provide the greatest long-term benefit. The original brief called for the addition of a new master suite incorporating an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe, a reconfigured kitchen with a walk-in scullery, a dedicated work-from-home area, and the creation of a formal front entry to replace the existing ranch-slider access points. In response, we prepared two initial design concepts, each exploring a different approach to achieving these objectives while also improving the home's street presence, arrival sequence, parking, and connection to the outdoor living areas. Following presentation of these concepts, valuable feedback and discussion with the owners helped further refine the brief. This collaborative design process highlighted the preferred elements of each scheme and identified opportunities to improve the home's overall functionality, leading to the development of a third concept. Set on a generous site within Ngāhinapōuri Village, the focus has always been on creating a home that feels more intuitive to live in, with stronger connections between its key living spaces and the surrounding landscape. The latest concept introduces a more natural and welcoming entry, improves the relationship between the lounge, dining and kitchen, and provides a more functional master suite, while continuing to respect the desired level of investment. The three concepts presented illustrate the evolution of the design process. While Concept 3 represents the current preferred direction, Concepts 1 and 2 remain valuable reference points, capturing ideas and design principles that may continue to inform the project as it progresses into the next stage of design development.

Latest version – 13 July This option refines the previous layouts by relocating the main entry into the existing Bedroom 3. This creates a more natural arrival from the parking area and gives the home a clearer sense of entry, while still making use of parts of the original entrance. The new foyer opens directly into the heart of the home, with the lounge to the left and dining to the right. A centrally positioned kitchen links these spaces, with a generous scullery tucked behind. A new 3.4 x 0.9 m island faces the eastern outdoor living area, and extending the original kitchen wall provides comfortable circulation around the island while strengthening the connection to the outdoors. The home continues to provide the requested three-bedroom layout. The new master suite sits behind the existing garage, creating a private retreat that remains well connected to the house. Access is via the existing laundry, with a separate hallway leading to the bedroom and a smaller walk-through laundry providing convenient outdoor access, ideal as a future spa or pool changing area. Overall, this design improves the home's flow, creates a more welcoming entry, and enhances the connection between the main living spaces and the outdoor entertaining area. Link to PDF version of OPTION #3.