Architects’ Creative Ltd.

8M House

8M House
© Sam Hartnett

8M HOUSE

Architects' Creative

ENGINEERING
Engco Consulting Engineers

LANDSCAPE
Ben Mcmaster

MANUFACTURERS
APL NZ, Bocci, Dimond, Duravit, HERMPAC, Pozzi Ginori, Silver Travertine

DESIGN TEAM
Kate Sullivan, Daniel Sullivan

PHOTOGRAPHS
Sam Hartnett

YEAR
2019

LOCATION
Christchurch, New Zealand

CATEGORY
Houses

Text description provided by architect.

The 120m2 footprint has been cleverly re-planned and extended with the desire for longevity being at the forefront of decision making throughout.

8M House
© Sam Hartnett
8M House
© Sam Hartnett
8M House
© Sam Hartnett

With the generosity of volume prioritised over the additional floor area, only 20 m2 was added in the process. A practical approach was taken to sustainability, working within the framework of the existing building the thermal mass and structure of existing concrete was utilised in conjunction with new elements, including warm-roof construction, thermally broken aluminum joinery, natural and sustainably sourced material selections, solar hot water and integrated heat recovery system.

The POP! up, driven by the desire for a new social kitchen space at ground level with generous natural light and a physical connection to the landscape, in conjunction with a new bedroom and ensuite at first-floor level, also provides access to rooftop outdoor living.

8M House
© Sam Hartnett
8M House
© Sam Hartnett
8M House
© Sam Hartnett

A generous double-height space over dining completes the addition.

The contemporary extension, which could be considered a new insertion, juxtaposes the original home confidently rising skyward from behind the concrete parapet.

Respectfully, only two walls and a portion of the roof were removed to allow for the newly conceived space.

8M House
© Sam Hartnett
8M House
© Sam Hartnett
8M House
© Sam Hartnett

Conceptually, the POP! up was conceived as a simple upward extrusion clad in a skin of marine-grade aluminum panel cladding, in running bond to reference existing features.

With considered window placement to capture views to surrounding hills, alongside generous roof glazing, the result is a light-filled volume displaying a dynamic play of light and shadow over the course of the day.

Designed with a balance between creating privacy and passive features in mind, the extension is orientated for solar gain, with opening arrangements for stack ventilation to utilizing predominant breezes ensuring the house maintains a temperate interior climate.

8M House
© Sam Hartnett
8M House
© Sam Hartnett
8M House
© Sam Hartnett

In contrast to the original, the interior of the POP! up comprises a palette of warm and enduring materials including travertine flooring, larch boarding to walls and ceilings, and oak and brass metalwork detailing, adding a subtle layer of texture and patina, composed and executed to the highest level of detail and craftsmanship.

The resulting spaces of the home embody the craft of architecture, bringing joy to the occupants in their everyday living, thus meeting their desire for an enduring family home.


8M House
© Sam Hartnett
8M House
© Sam Hartnett


8M House
Ground floor plan
8M House
First floor plan
8M House
Exploded axo


8M House
Elevations
8M House
Sectional perspective

Architects’ Creative Ltd.
T +64 27 4851174
Architects’ Creative Ltd.
Ground Floor, 339 St Asaph Street, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand