Despite its reputation for gentility, Remuera in TΔmaki Makaurau has its fair share of mid-century houses β though few are as special as this late-1950s bungalow reworked by SGAβs Dave Strachan just over a decade ago.
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The original appeal is obvious. Located down a long, sinewy driveway, overlooking a lush glade of nΔ«kau, itβs sheltered and private. With a wide gable roof, raking ceilings, exposed rafters and a generous brick chimney in the living space, the house had a peaceful air. But it was tired, with few original features left and little outdoor space. The front door was cramped and access to the lower level was via a steep, narrow staircase.
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Strachanβs redesign added a new language of yellow-cedar louvres, along with a clarity of space that sought to open the place up to the surrounding glade. He also introduced a generous deck that wraps the living area on three sides.
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Extending the brick chimney breast, he created a plastered blade that unites the two levels, and has vastly improved the sense of entry. Now, you approach up a series of floating concrete platforms and into an airy atrium. Stairs lead down to a second living room, study and kitchenette, and upstairs to the main living area.
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On the other side of the blade, an outdoor living space with open fire rests under the kicked-up roof. Up the hall, there are three bedrooms and two bathrooms. A new garage continues the line of the gable, wrapped in acrylic sheet and cedar louvres. New birch ply cabinetry, dark-stained beams and Victorian ash flooring honour the houseβs origins but still feel fresh. After 14 years, the owners are on the move β fittingly, to another Strachan renovation.
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Glade House
18 Te Kowhai Place Remuera, TΔmaki Makaurau Auckland
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