“the Heineken beer fridge wow factor…”

Relationship to site, context, presence

Situated in an urban setting on the banks of the Waikato River the main focal design objective was to improve internal flows within and between spaces; and to establish an indoor / outdoor connection to an external living area and the wider surroundings. The design response was centered around remodeling within the existing footprint.

Relationship between concept, form, structure

Clients brief was to transform the face of an existing tiring 1940’s weatherboard house into a fresh modern urban residence that acknowledged the backdrop of the Waikato River and incorporated “the Heineken beer fridge wow factor…”

A small lounge extension afforded the integration of bi-folding door elements that allows the wall to disappear and let the indoor spaces seamlessly flow onto a 6x10m glazed roof outdoor living area – “the Heineken beer fridge wow factor…” The glass roof allows one to take in the views of the site whilst remain protected from the elements.

Internal rooms were remodeled to improve flows and connections between, within and around spaces. The living rooms have been turned into interconnecting spaces that have been separated through timber screen and double sided fire elements.

Contribution/spirit

An earthy neutral colour scheme has been employed throughout to provide the end user a canvas in which the embellishment of colour can be incorporated though accessories, artwork and the like

With clearly defined modern lines this refurbishment provides a fresh user friendly environment  whilst respecting and incorporating existing detailing.