Trends New Zealand Trends Volume 31 No 8 New Zealand | Page 18

Top and above right: A large overhang on the
east side of the house creates a sheltered outdoor
living area that overlooks the tennis court. The
court has retractable boundary netting.
Above: The new poolscape features a swimming
pool with a wet edge, so the water is flush with
the paving. There is also a spa pool and a fire pit
water feature. LED lighting enhances the dra ma at
night. Most of the existing trees on the site were
retained, including a large jacaranda.
Story by Colleen Hawkes
Photography by Serena Pearce

Rodrigues. “For the same reason we
added French doors to the bedrooms
that open to the upper terrace. These are
another traditional reference, as are the
pergola elements.”
The original staircase was retained,
with a new walnut balustrade to match
the flooring.
A mix of materials features in the
kitchen. The cabinetry is lacquered, while
the oven tower and panelling around the
extractor are a light timber veneer. Marble,
with a prominent veining, was specified

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for the front of the island and splashback.
Additional storage and bench space are
provided in a hidden scullery at the rear.
The house has air conditioning, but
this is rarely used as there is good cross
ventilation on both floors.
“We also incorporated a large array
of solar panels on the north-facing roof.
These generate sufficient electricity to
meet the energy needs of the household,” says Rodrigues. “Rainwater is also
harvested for reuse in the vegetable and
herb gardens.”