Trajectory of sunlight

Renovation by Barry Connor Design

From the building designer:

Project description

Located within a quiet leafy residential suburb sits this classic Christchurch villa style property. 

Originally built in 1939, the property had undergone various modifications over the years and has also been extensively renovated numerous times. 

This has accumulated in an unreasoned layout with no rationale, under-utilised spaces and a disjointed and ad-hoc feel – far from suited to modern living for the new owners, a young family with two small children.

Our challenge was to consider the transformation of the entire plan and curate a cohesive and functional habitat for our homeowners, a young couple with a growing family. 

We worked closely with them to understand their needs and preferences, and looked to develop a design that seamlessly blends modern amenities with the villa's classic character.

One of our key objectives was to create more flexible social spaces that could respond to a variety of different occasions and scenarios. 

We looked to accomplish this by reimagining the layout and curating open-concept living area that can seamlessly adapt to the family's changing needs over time.

In addition to the above, we also prioritised the connection between the villa and its existing garden space. 

We worked to create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, incorporating large windows and doors to bring natural light into the home and providing easy access to the garden.

Design features and creative solutions

One of our key design strategies was to cluster the main living spaces along the trajectory of sunlight, maximising natural light and creating optimal living conditions. 

This approach not only enhances the functionality of the space but also promotes sustainability by reducing the reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours.

Our approach to sustainability was centred around utilising the existing space and getting it to work smarter, rather than relying on further additions to the footprint. 

We also prioritised environmentally conscious choices, including the use of sustainable materials, energy-efficient solutions, and smart home technologies to reduce the villa's ecological footprint where possible.

In addition to optimising natural light, we looked for opportunities to repurpose existing spaces and provide additional amenities without increasing the floor area. 

Through thoughtful space consideration we were able to include new amenity into the existing footprint which included a new powder room, media room, and pantry space.

Overall, our restoration of this classic villa has transformed it into a modern family home with a cohesive layout, flexible and adaptable plan, and engaging social spaces that perfectly suit the needs of our owners as a young, growing family. 

This restoration has created a forever home for our clients, allowing then to enjoy and grow into their new home for years to come.

Designed by: Barry Connor Design

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Hazel Redmond