Extension + Renovation - Freemans Bay, Auckland

From day one, we were confronted with challenges, but we were committed to delivering the homeowners' intricate vision and thrived on completing this complex renovation and extension.

Craig + Lucy partnered with Our Projects to transform their distinctive four-level 1990s architectural gem in Freeman's Bay. The task at hand was to streamline the layout and enhance the overall flow of the residence. Situated on a steep central Auckland site, this endeavour demanded creative engineering solutions and presented us with numerous obstacles. 

One of the standout achievements of this project was the addition of a 67m² extension, creating a brand-new ground level complete with a bedroom, bathroom, living area, and guest kitchen. However, our logistical hurdles were apparent right from the start. The narrow driveway made it impossible for trucks to access the site: the concrete floor and foundations had to be pumped from the road above. A new cantilevered car park now occupies the lower rear section of the property, new decking was added on all levels, and a pool overlooks the backyard.

To preserve the property's unique features, we faced the task of balancing old and new. The original sloping roof lines and beautiful Tasmanian oak flooring were retained, and we incorporated modern touches such as white-painted exposed timber beams, a designer kitchen with bespoke concrete countertops, and sophisticated bathrooms to add a contemporary feel. Black concrete floors from Peter Fell Limited were polished to give a distressed texture, providing commercial flair while retaining the softness of the home. 

The exterior of the house received a facelift with the application of cedar weatherboards, and we replaced the portal windows with three-meter-high stacking doors in the lounge to add natural light and city views.

Beneath the property, a concealed underground river posed a unique challenge that called for site-specific waterproofing systems. Our planning and execution ensured the structural integrity of both the carpark and the new extension. Piles driven six meters deep were complemented by steel posts and beams, serving as the foundation for the floating slab that supports the car park.

Throughout this three-year journey, we encountered layers of problems to be solved. We built strong relationships with our technical contractors, engineers, and Craig and Lucy, who lived on-site with their newborn baby for the majority of the build. This project was a testament to our team's resilience, and we thrived on the complexities it presented.

In the words of Craig + Lucy, "It was an arduous project but well worth the final result. Our challenging site, unexpected issues with the existing house, and the architect choosing to withdraw from the project early on made it difficult. Ryan and the team always kept communication lines open and provided great solutions. We could not be happier with the outcome."