WATERLOO HOUSE

WELLINGTON RESIDENCE

This modern home is located on a large double site close to the city centre of Lower Hutt. We planned the house around a courtyard and swimming pool to create private and sheltered living spaces, while a second storey provides expanse and outlook.

A large entry atrium greets the visitor and acts as circulation between the house and garage, as well as the public and private wings of the house. The overall spatial sequence spirals up and through the house to culminate in a tower with views over Lower Hutt and Wellington Harbour in the distance.

We hired a cherrypicker to make photographic studies of sunlight and views from the site at various heights. Using this information, we were able to position the third storey study so that it could view the sea, as well as optimising views and privacy from the other rooms.

This extensive house features large living spaces at ground floor, a private swimming pool and spa area, and separate guest house. On the first floor, a private main bedroom suite has its own balcony and is separated from the children's bedrooms and bathrooms by an atrium bridge. 

Passive solar design strategies include generous areas of north-facing glazing and concrete floors for thermal mass. Eaves and pergolas prevent overheating and glare during summer but allow low-angle sun to penetrate deep into the house in winter.