When our client approached us, he was ready for a fresh start. His previous experience with an architect had left him frustrated – costs had spiralled, communication was lacking, and the designs did not reflect his vision. With a tight urban site in West Auckland and a bold brief in hand, he needed a team that could not only deliver three standalone homes but also navigate the site’s many complexities. Our role began with refining the designs for Lots 2 and 3, while Lot 1 required a complete rethink.

The site itself presented numerous challenges. It opened narrowly to the street before widening toward the rear, and it climbed on a steep 1:8 gradient. To complicate matters, an established street tree needed preserving, and our client wanted House 1 to present strongly to the street – with both the garage and main entry clearly visible from the road. All of this constrained the buildable footprint and outdoor space. Despite these limitations, client’s brief called for three spacious homes, each with four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a double garage. Achieving this within a 580m² site demanded clever, precise design and spatial ingenuity.

We elevated the main living areas to the first floor to capture ocean views to the east and generate a greater sense of space. Soaring pitched ceilings, generous skylights, and wide balcony openings were introduced to enhance light and airiness. Though compact in area, the homes feel bright, open, and connected to their surroundings.

Externally, we addressed site constraints with innovative solutions. Houses 1 and 2 incorporated internal concrete retaining walls, removing the need for external fences or retaining structures and preserving the narrow 1.5 metre access strip between Houses 2 and 3. This approach unlocked valuable outdoor areas and improved flow across the development. The homes were treated as individual standalone dwellings to maximise market value, with the client opting for crisp white cladding to enhance natural light and create a fresh, inviting streetscape.

Construction, however, brought its own challenges. Client remained actively involved, regularly suggesting design changes – many of which were introduced during the build phase. These included revisions to handrail connections on balconies, junctions between the barge and external walls, internal staircase transitions, and the kitchen layout. Several driveway modifications were also made, with adjusted slopes and varying concrete finishes to suit both function and form.

The construction team was committed to delivering to a high standard. The pursuit of perfection meant careful coordination on site, particularly for one-of-a-kind detailing that needed accurate interpretation and execution. With the client’s hands-on approach, we had to be adaptable, ensuring every new request was aligned with the overall design vision without compromising progress.

One notable client request was the preservation of a mature grapefruit tree at the rear of House 3. Rather than remove it, we built the rear deck around it – a gesture that reflected the spirit of collaboration that defined the project.

Despite design revisions and a tight timeframe, the homes were delivered within budget. The result is a compact development of three distinct homes that feel anything but constrained. This project is a testament to the power of clear communication, creative problem-solving, and the commitment of a team working toward a shared vision. From reimagining Lot 1 to managing client-driven changes during construction, every decision was made with care, precision, and a deep respect for the site and the client’s aspirations.