Behind the scenes

Contemporary architecture has evolved to suit the New Zealand lifestyle. Clean lines, light, spacious interiors and extra-wide openings that allow for good indoor-outdoor flow reflect the way we live and entertain.

Creating such a home, however, is often anything but simple. The design and construction can be complex, so choosing a reputable builder is essential to achieve the right look and ensure quality workmanship.

This new house, designed by architect Frans Kamermans and built by Mitchell Homes, is a good example of the trend towards contemporary, uncluttered design. As a one-off project, it presentednumerous building challenges, says Mitchell Homes director Brent Mitchell.

"Managing a project where there are unknown parameters is always a challenge, and new and modern designs present more of these unknowns'," he says. "Also, a client's expectations grow and evolve as a project progresses, especially as they walk through the home and experience the spaces in reality. We need to work with that and be flexible enough to accommodate changes."

Brent Mitchell says specific challenges on this project included engineering the large opening on the northern side of the house and ensuring the roof was adequately supported.

"Constant communication between the builder and client is essential," he says. "Experience, a commitment to getting it right, and not taking shortcuts are also crucial. And we always need to liaise closely with the client to keep within the budget."

Special features of this house include the cedar weatherboard exterior, which has handmade mouldings. The boards are complemented by commercial shop-front joinery in the living areas.

The clean lines of the exterior are matched by an uncluttered interior. Solid timber overlay flooring features in the living areas.

"The timber was chosen for its clean lines, but also to provide visual warmth," says Brent Mitchell. "It ensures the interior doesn't appear too sterile or industrial."

The dark brown colour of the exterior flows through to interior feature walls. In other areas neutral tones complement the concrete and pebble that also feature on the exterior.

For details, contact Mitchell Homes, phone 0800 728 872. Website: www.mitchell-homes.co.nz. The company has a showhome at 3 Wayne Francis Dr, Dannemora, Auckland.

Story by: Trendsideas