Currently taking bookings from Mid December 2024
The House
A modern and stylish three storey, interpretation of the original 1890's dwelling that occupied the site, until it burnt down in 1974. The black corrugated iron, green bay window and hip roof are a nod to the style of the surrounding, 1800’s style houses.
Designed by Spacecraft Architects, the timber framed house was built between 2019 and 2022 and was recently featured (including front cover) in the spring 2023 edition of HERE magazine.
Prior to that the site was, for a time, used as a park by the Wellington City Council, before being incorporated on the title of the neighbouring property. Chimney pots from the old house are still on site and incorporated into the native garden.
During its years as a vacant lot, the site featured in a painting by local Island Bay artist, Michael McCormack, entitled “Corner on to Aro Street”.
Despite the house being just 4 metres wide, the rooms are all generously proportioned and flow easily, giving it an unexpected spacious feeling.
Designed to maximise light and all day sun, a large skylight in the roof directs light and warmth down through the stairwell and internal decks, to the ground floor. The house is fully insulated, with double glazed windows and underfloor heating. An air reticulating system redirects warm air from the top storey down to the ground floor.
The ground floor is waxed concrete with a beautiful warm, pounamu hue. Natural oak, eucalypt and birch timbers have been used throughout for the floors, ceilings and cabinetry. The lighting, designed by Moth Lighting, is stylish and understated.
To the rear of the house is a sheltered courtyard with mature trees and a 'forest floor' garden, providing dappled shade and a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of Aro Street. Relax with a drink and spot the avocado's hanging from your very own avocado tree.
The two west facing bedrooms have their own balcony capturing late sun and providing indoor-outdoor flow. The view through the cabbage and avocado trees to the garden below gives the bedrooms a tree-house feel.