Trends New Zealand Trends Volume 31 No 13 New Zealand | Page 56

Preceding pages: Detailing on the
stair bannister is complemented by
new fine detailing on the skirting and
architraves. Contemporary-meetsclassic inverted wall panelling covers
feature walls.
Above: A new kitchen and open-air
central courtyard are at the heart of
the home, which is as much about
family life as frequent entertaining.
The courtyard floods natural light
into what would otherwise be the
darkest point of the interior.

Natural light was also accentuated by the use
of large mirror panels in the formal living area
and dining area. The mirror panels bounce light
through the interior and give the impression of
greater space. Large artworks are suspended in
front of the expansive reflective surfaces, making
the mirrors less confrontational. An operable
skylight brings light into the rear family room.
The panel format is continued on the walls
but, in a reverse play on old-world panelling,
the framing is inset rather than proud of the
wall. The client wanted the rooms to be modern
with touches of more classic elements – and the

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inverted panel format addresses both styles.
While the staircase bannister is original,
elsewhere new ‘old’ detailing has been added.
“Even though the spaces are open-plan,
porticos and frames are strategically set to screen
out utilitarian elements and to create a sense of
movement between rooms,” says Archer. “For
example, the central dining room isn’t completely in your face from the main living area.”
Similarly, the door into the kitchen from the
dining area is strategically placed to allow an
uninterrupted view through the interior. However, its placement also screens out the mess of