With lots of white and a new layout to capture the views, this Auckland home has been transformed into a sophisticated and stylish coastal haven.
Simple styling and an eye for design has given this home a fresh and airy seaside vibe. “My aim was to maximise the natural light
and to have a more seamless flow between the spaces to make the most of the amazing views,” says Tony Borland-Lye, head of design at Box – The Architect Builder.
The redesign pays tribute to Vernon Brown, widely considered a pioneer in modern New Zealand architecture, known for his light-filled brown boxes with white trim.
Clad in dark-stained vertical Weathertex and offset with white joinery, the house’s exterior has the look and feel of this influential architect. Coming from California, the owners had an appreciation of mid-century design and hints of this style – clean lines, minimalist and functional aesthetics – can be seen throughout.
When it came to the interior design, the coastal location led the way, informing the look and feel. “We really wanted a natural aesthetic to match the location, which is such a big part of why we love the house,” says the owner.
The redesign by Tony Borland-Lye of Box emphasised mid-century design and seamless flow to maximise views. Photo / Sophie Heyworth
The new layout Box came up with centres around a vast open-plan living space, where the dining room is backed by a wall of built-in display shelving and overlooks a sunken lounge with a bank of floor-to-ceiling sliders that access the sea view.
Pale timber floors team with light-wood cabinetry in the kitchen, and hand-blown European glass pendants hanging over the large bench keep the mood relaxed and casual. Although all the changes have been made within the existing footprint, only one original internal wall remains.
As is often the case, the revamp grew in scale from the original idea. “What began as a modest renovation grew to a comprehensive project to bring the house up to the highest standards of build quality and design,” says Borland-Lye.
The project included a new open-plan layout, improved entrance way, and enhanced connection to the sea. Photo / Sophie Heyworth
The new look is lighter, brighter and more connected to the stunning sea-facing landscape, thanks to the removal of a gloomy hallway and a television lounge that blocked the view. “When you sit in the back garden, you can now see right through the house to the sea,” he continues.
The redesign included improving the home’s entrance way, taking visitors along an attractive landscaped pathway. The new boardwalk winds its way down from the road, past a new two-car garage with a large cedar door.
The 50-year-old home was rebuilt within its original footprint. Photo / Sophie Heyworth
It meanders through a freshly planted garden of palms and cabbage trees to the front door – a true journey of welcome. “We were aiming for better functionality and flow from the outside,” says Borland-Lye.
Designer Tony Borland-Lye drew on Vernon Brown’s modernist coastal style. Photo / Sophie Heyworth
It’s clear that Box has more than fulfilled its brief to transform this 50-year-old home to suit the family’s lifestyle and highlight the beauty of the site.
“I wanted to create a space for entertaining and a comfortable retreat – it’s that and more,” says Borland-Lye.
Most importantly, the owners are rapt with the result. “They couldn’t be happier with the new design. They were very vocal in their appreciation,” he adds.
In association with Trends. For more photos of this house, click here
More on art, home and design
Showcase fresh ways to make your home more joyful, more functional, and uniquely yours.