This unique but gracious turn-of-century villa was built high up on the end of a rocky Maungawhau lava flow.

In 2014 the present owners moved in to restore the property for family living.

Mitigating the towering appearance of the house and improving access to the garden and front entrance were priorities. The existing garaging was retained, but the level of the pedestrian walkway and gardens surrounding the steps to the veranda were raised to achieve better proportions. A large puriri tree and shade planting feature in the sunken lawn and garden was created by lifting these levels.

The rocky nature of the site presented a huge challenge for design and construction.

Working with the existing landform a pool was sited adjacent to the kitchen and outdoor living areas. Positioned to maximise sun from the north and west it provides family recreation and a resort-like vista.

A cantilevered viewing platform cleverly links the spaces.

A new planting scheme was developed for the site. Retaining large existing trees, and interplanting both native and exotic trees to provide screening and a visual backdrop for the gardens and pool area. Sun and shade borders have been thoughtfully planned to give a lush texture and seasonal flowering that suits the veranda-fronted house.

While much of the house and garden has undergone transformation the project continues.

Planning is underway for a new kitchen and completion of the back garden. The redesign will include opening the rear of the house to a newly designed outdoor space sensitive to both the architectural changes and completed landscape work.