Owners Transform 1970s House into Award-Winning Modern Home

The owners of an award-winning property in Wānaka faced a pivotal choice: renovate their 1970s home or construct a new dwelling. While they cherished various aspects of the old house, they recognized its limitations and opted for a new build that would better meet their needs for warmth and comfort.

According to one of the owners, the original house had “quite a lot of issues” but also a “lovely feel” that they aimed to replicate in the new design. The new home incorporates features reminiscent of the old, such as courtyards and garden areas that wrap around the structure, along with large bookshelves and sunny window seats.

Architects Address Challenges of Renovation

The architectural team noted that despite the emotional attachment to the original house, it was no longer suitable for modern living. The previous structure was described as modest in scale, poorly insulated, and lacking the thermal performance necessary for year-round comfort in Wānaka’s climate.

Renovating would have required extensive structural and thermal upgrades, which would not align with the long-term vision the clients had for a warm, efficient home capable of accommodating extended family. The new design features two main pavilions arranged in a split-level plan that responds to the site’s contours. The bedroom wing is positioned slightly lower, offering a subtle separation while maintaining a cohesive design.

Sustainability was a priority throughout the project. The architects implemented passive design principles to enhance energy efficiency. A high-performance thermal envelope, heat recovery ventilation, and photovoltaic systems work together to reduce the home’s environmental impact.

Construction Process and Design Features

During the demolition of the old house, the owners encountered asbestos, which added complexity to the project. However, they reported that the overall process was stress-free, thanks in part to their collaboration with the architects and Breen Construction.

The new home features a mix of hard surfaces, including concrete floors and a board-formed concrete wall. To address acoustics, the design incorporates a timber-lined ceiling, which effectively softens sound reverberation.

Initial concerns that the new house might stand out too prominently in the landscape proved unfounded. The property is enveloped by gardens, allowing it to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. This aspect was highlighted by judges when the project received an award at the 2025 Southern Architecture Awards.

The panel applauded the design for its ability to nestle within the established landscape, contrasting with other constructions that often strive to capture expansive mountain views. This thoughtful integration into the environment underscores the owners’ vision of creating a welcoming and harmonious home.