Eden Roc

With restrictive recession planes, a typically elevated-hilly Wellington site, several property easements, tight access, development covenants, high wind and exposure zoning, and a beautiful northwest aspect, an irregular Z shape plan over two stories was conceived to accommodate: four bedrooms, three bathrooms, open plan living, separate lounge, double car garaging, utility/laundry room and covered outdoor living.

The private driveway access allowed a minimal setback from the street and the front elevation responds with a minimal white rendered masonry wall and geometric entrance canopy, contrasted with a deep recessed carport clad in dark cedar to create a strong positive-negative composition on first arrival. Rhythmic cedar screens offer privacy and mediate solar gain on the north elevation; an extruded cedar clad structure is suspended over a terraced outdoor living space to the west, and a cantilevered deck wrapped in cedar louvers further continues the architectural language of the exterior form.

The interiors are robust with black float finished floors throughout, exposed/painted masonry walls and ply ceilings. The material and colour palette is eclectic; black/white, clear Oak, an Ombre of green hues, deep blue and pops of colour from textiles. Built-in cabinetry helps define the living areas with reference to principles from the mid-century along with vintage and contemporary furniture rounding out the vibrant but refined spaces.

The home is ultimately to be sold on for new occupants to inhabit and call their own. Despite this it is hoped to demonstrate that an investment in unique architectural identity is a viable model for development and that the speculative home need not cater only to the lowest common denominator.