Taking the long view

If you find a derelict property that needs a major overhaul to make it habitable, a walk around may quickly reveal any hidden potential. That's especially true if the property is near attractive natural amenities, such as a river or woodland.

It's a rule of thumb that homeowners David and Deborah Bunyard would agree with. When they came across this property, a run-down former gas station only yards from a major state highway, they saw beyond the potential site contamination and traffic noise.

What captured their imagination, says Deborah Bunyard, was the view of the river. Once they'd checked that the soil was safe to build on, the family decided to go ahead.

Much of the original building, including a large service court, was demolished and original stone from the walls salvaged for re-use. The architects, Mark McLeay and Glenn McHardie of Creative Arch, then designed a long, low building that runs parallel to the river. Sun streams into the home along one side, while extensive glazing along the other elevation provides 180° views of the river just as the owners envisioned.

The entrance leads to a fully glazed indoor deck, with an aluminum louvered roof that can be opened. An external deck overlooks the river. The west zone forms a self-contained space for guests, while to the east, the original building has been renovated to form the family living zone.

"We wanted to use contemporary lines and forms and make the house as natural as possible so that it would sit into the landscape," says McLeay. "We chose to make the home one story, with a low pitched roof, and used natural tones and colors."

Externally, the home features low-maintenance siding, ExoTech board and original Hinuera stone that the Bunyards wanted to retain as a reminder of the home's history. Double-glazed window which incorporates one layer of sound-proofed glass and double layers of insulation, drywall and exterior cladding have dampened traffic noise.

Internally, the only sign of the home's origins is the mechanics' pit in the living area, which has been converted into a wine cellar.

Interior decor was chosen by Deborah Bunyard. Red accents enliven a white, cream and black color palette, and materials are low maintenance.

Story by: Alison Wall