Trends New Zealand Trends Volume 31 No 6 New Zealand | Page 60

The core reinforces a sculptural quality
that is also evident in a single, continuous,
blackened solid steel stair balustrade that
rises from the basement to the top floor.
“Again, this is an understated feature
of the house, but it enhances the paredback material palette and complements
the black detailing seen elsewhere. It also
helps to visually link the different levels,”
says the architect.
Glazed walls in a children’s play area
on the upper level provide a view down
into the family living area, reinforcing the

sense of connection between the floors.
In the kitchen, warm timbers reappear,
with a bank of oak veneer cabinets forming
part of the central core. The refrigerator
is integrated, and the door to the scullery
and pantry is also concealed.
The veneer cabinets are contrasted by
an oversized solid concrete island that
measures a massive 4m x 2m.
“This is a gathering space for friends
and family,” says the architect. “There is
plenty of additional storage and bench
space within the scullery that comes in

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handy when the owners entertain.”
In keeping with the demands of
modern living, the rear facade is fully
operable, with glazed sliding doors helping to blur the line between inside and out.
“The social areas of the kitchen, living
room, barbecue and poolscape seamlessly
morph to create one large entertainment
hub,” says Linardi.
Further entertaining facilities are
provided in the basement, which features
a cinema and wine cellar, in addition to a
gym, laundry and garaging.