Purely modern
A secluded site in Merivale sets the scene for a sleek modern rebuild by Gregg Builders.
When one couple’s grand Georgian-style home was rocked to its foundations in the 2011 quake, they had an agonising choice to make: move on or rebuild. Having lived on the peaceful tree-lined street for the last 40 years, the only choice they entertained was staying put and embarking on the daunting task of rebuilding.
By enlisting Gregg Builders, whose acumen is backed by a wealth of industry experience, they received all the support and guidance they needed. Minimising any possible stress, Gregg Builders assumed responsibility for dealing with the insurance company; and, with their inclusive approach, the building team filled their clients with confidence in their abilities.
While the insurance policy stipulated that the house be built like the original, due to post-quake building regulations, the only option that remained was to build something completely different.
Keen to include modern technology wherever possible, the design brief was simple and allowed for the creative talents of the architectural and building team. The couple’s main requests were that their new home would be easy to live in, sit comfortably on the site, and offer effortless flow between the various spaces, indoors and out.
Involved from day one, Gregg Builders’ project manager Craig Wilson was responsible for overseeing the demolition of the original house, managing logistics of the various subcontractors, and liaising with the architect, designers and numerous suppliers.
Once construction was underway, Craig met regularly with the homeowners to discuss progress, along with any issues to be resolved or decisions the couple were required to make.
‘It was an absolute pleasure to work with the couple’, Craig says; ‘being able to bring their vision to life was deeply rewarding’.
The only challenge Craig recalls was the logistics of working within the confines of a back section whose only access was down a long driveway. Preserving the towering 100-year-old trees on either side required careful planning and management of large deliveries, and the choreography of crane sequences by Craig and his team.
Providing the vast majority of building materials and hardware products for the rebuild, from timber frames and trusses to the exterior cladding, PlaceMakers Cranford Street is the building supplier of choice for Gregg Builders. With a longstanding relationship and collaborative approach, PlaceMakers say that site foreman Craig is always easy to deal with, and ensured this project ran smoothly.
The exterior was clad using a combination of cedar weatherboard battens and Resene Construction Integra panels, which were finished with Rockcote plaster, while hardwood oak was used on the interiors, lending a beautiful warmth to an otherwise crisp white canvas.
Delivering an immaculate finish on all plasterboard interior walls, Lance Ash Interiors also supplied and installed the ceiling battens and insulation that keeps this home warm and dry. Lance Ash Interiors' General Manager Graeme McErlich says the fix and stop work completed on the double storey void above the staircase, and the detailed trim work required on each tread, provided a rewarding challenge.
Ensuring harmony throughout the home, Sockburn Joinery manufactured and installed all custom-made joinery as designed by the architect. From the kitchen, to the wardrobes, to the study, the impeccable workmanship of the joiners has seen this modern home furnished with functional storage solutions that exude understated luxury.
The pared-back open-plan kitchen features a monochrome palette. Sporting sleek black granite countertops, the panels and doors were painted in Resene Half Black White with a medium gloss finish. To complement the uninterrupted lines of the architecture, aluminium extrusion handles were chosen and matched with a brushed stainless steel toe kick plate. And, for maximum ease of use, all drawers were furnished with superior Blum soft-closing drawer mechanisms.
Large format ceramic timber-effect tiles from Treverk were supplied and installed by Nextdore – creating continuity between the open-plan kitchen and dining areas. For its practicality and warmth, the living room and all bedrooms were fitted with New Zealand-made Feltex Calluna carpet. The cut pile twist is beautifully soft; and, for optimum comfort and warmth underfoot, a premium foam cushion underlay from Hi-Life Elite was used.
The perfect partner to high-end modern homes, the Fairview Architectural series was selected for all aluminium windows and doors, supplied and installed by GA Aluminium. Their distinctive flat profile and contemporary clean lines complement this simple architectural form. With premium features, such as over-the-wall stackers and corner sliders with flush tracks on doors, the effortless indoor/outdoor flow the owners sought was achieved.
Thrilled with the outcome, the homeowners say that they love the natural light that floods in through the vast north-facing glazing. ‘It’s so warm and sunny, and this new layout has a much better connection with the outdoor areas.’
With faultless communication, the homeowners say Gregg Builders dealt with any issues as and when they arose, which filled them with confidence and made for a stress-free experience.
Finding it difficult to choose a single favourite aspect, the homeowner says each and every room has something special to offer. Best of all, though, is the north-facing aspect, with floor-to-ceiling glazing that offers peaceful views out over the established garden.
‘Sitting back from the comfort of my new home and being able to watch the changing of the seasons is quite magical.’
Words: Majka Kaiser Photography: Jamie Armstrong
