KARORI RESIDENCE 3

Design Concept and Features:

Maximizing Site Potential: Early in the concept design stage, it became clear that to fully leverage the excellent site orientation, a three-story structure would be necessary. This design solution maximizes sun exposure and offers spectacular views of the Karori Park area. Despite strict city council recession plan restrictions and the need for significant excavation, the project proceeded smoothly through the Resource Consent process (DA), without requiring additional neighbours’ approvals.

Spatial Organization: The 319 m² residence spans three levels, each thoughtfully designed for optimal functionality and flow. The ground level features a double garage with storage, a covered entry porch, a main entrance lobby, and a versatile space suitable for a small studio-apartment, business use, or a large rumpus/hobby room. Central staircases provide seamless vertical circulation.

Middle Level: The middle level, accessible via centrally located steps with a gallery/hallway, houses four bedrooms. This includes two master suites with ensuites and walk-in wardrobes, and two additional double bedrooms with a separate main bathroom. Expansive outdoor spaces on this level are oriented to the north and east, offering breathtaking views of the Karori sports fields and park.

Top Level: The top level is the heart of the home, featuring open-plan living, dining, and kitchen areas, along with a formal lounge/TV room/family library. An additional outdoor living space as the roof terrace on this level, is perfect for entertaining and outdoor activities. Raised roofs above central stairwells flood the interiors with natural light, creating a bright and welcoming environment and further intentionally accenting on overall architectural composition.

Architectural Elegance: The design embodies contemporary elegance with clear lines, boxy forms, and flat roofs. Material selection and color schemes give Karori Residence 3 a distinct identity. Predominantly metal wall cladding, horizontal painted weatherboards, and extensive grey-tinted double glazing in dark grey powder-coated aluminium joinery enhance its modernist appeal. The monochromatic black, white, and grey color scheme further accentuates its sleek, sophisticated look.

Sustainability and Innovation: Sustainability is a cornerstone of the design. Features include a big underground hidden water tank (under additional car parking space), extensive solar panels on the flat roof with a diverter and power storage, and the use of local, sustainable materials and top-quality trades. The design maximizes passive solar gain, thermal insulation, and environmental impact minimization while providing a visually pleasing appearance that harmonizes with the surrounding context.

Structural Integrity: The structural integrity is ensured with thermally insulated reinforced concrete foundations and a combination of steel and timber framing for all 3 levels and the roof, providing durability and resilience.