Moncks Spur Renovation.

Originally a 1960s red brick 2 storey house which had already been added on to in the 80’s this home has undergone a major renovation. Stripping it back to framing and foundation and changing the living room layout, removing walls to form an open plan kitchen and living area.

While the repairs to restore the home to pre-earthquake condition were mainly cosmetic, the homeowners went well beyond what was required. And with good reason. Access to outdoors was limited and the living area layout was awkward. While the basic footprint and framework was retained, the home was reroofed, and the damaged fireplace and twisted aluminium windows were replaced. The red brick exterior was stripped and the framework re-clad in shiplap tinted-oil cedar boards.

Upstairs, a contemporary addition projects beyond the traditional existing form. This addition serves to consolidate the living areas and creates an airy, gallery-like, comfortable space.

The high stud is framed by a floating timber ceiling and punctuated by 1960s tempered glass pendants, salvaged from an old school hall in Prague.

The hero piece in the living room, is a huge picture window – showcasing phenomenal views of Christchurch city, the changing patterns of the Ihutai Avon Heathcote Estuary, Pegasus Bay and the Kaikōura ranges beyond. With

Downstairs, the concrete block walls are strapped and lined, and an extra living room has been added and brought life to dormant rooms by creating a second living area, which spills out onto a covered deck with outdoor fireplace. The deck steps down onto a lush lawn area protected from the prevailing easterly wind.