From the ground up home loan for new build from Westpac

Some might call it Murphy's Law, but you can be certain that building a new home will throw up plenty of challenges along the way. Similarly, looking for an existing property to buy is hardly ever straightforward.

The challenges for the owners of this new home, which was designed by architect Ron Seeto, involved the difficult site. Before construction could begin on the three-level home, the site had to be excavated and two building platforms created.

The house was designed as two tower elements linked by an informal hub that provides indoor-outdoor living. This balances the need for interior privacy and filtered views.

"A skewed central axis reinforces the idea of movement up through the residence as it negotiates the site," says Seeto.

The garage and storage areas on the basement level give way to secondary bedrooms, a gym and laundry on the level above. The third level starts with the living and dining areas that look out over the views and then moves to the kitchen and open courtyard, which is reached by floor-to-ceiling glass doors.

"This design moves from public to private spaces," says Seeto. "A small step from the living spaces to the kitchen circulation corridor signals a movement into more informal areas, including the courtyard, study and home theatre.

"The uppermost level is the domain of the master bedroom, ensuite, master dressing and a rooftop garden."

While maintaining privacy from the street, helped by the placement of the garage and the garden over it, the design maximises views to the front of the home. Bedrooms on the lower level, and the formal rooms above, look directly to the street, while the study and kitchen have sightlines to the same outlooks. The master suite has a clear outlook across the roof garden to the harbour.

The articulated design makes the most of the natural light that filters into the interiors from the central courtyard. Arrow-slit windows in the stairwell and angled clerestory windows in the living areas, kitchen and master suite contribute to the light, airy feel.

For most families, however, the first challenge in such a project involves financial planning, and this is something that is best sorted at the outset. Just as you take time to find an architect or a design-build company that is on the same wavelength, you also need to tailor your finance to meet your needs.

Westpac can help in many different ways, but it is best to talk to a consultant you may be surprised to see just how easy it is to fund your new home project.

Westpac will advise on different types of home building loans, so your loan can be structured in a way that works best for you. The bank can also help with other aspects of your project such as dealing with valuers, solicitors and accountants.

For further details visit your local Westpac branch or phone 0800 177 277. Website: www.westpac.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas