Creative solution to hillsite problems

Press, 26 January 1989, Page 29

Creative solution to hillsite problems

THE LIFESTYLE afforded by living in a townhouse held plenty of appeal for the residents of this Mount Pleasant property — both worked, and their grownup family had left home. The small, attractively landscaped garden and easily-cared-for open plan living was perfectly suited to their requirements.

Accommodating two townhouses on the hilly site with its panoramic views over the Estuary, city and plains, was a challenge for the owners because of a City Council bylaw requiring a double garage for each home unit. Several developers were unable to come up with a solution, but the problem was cleverly solved by the Christchurch architect, Mr Gavin Willis, of Willis and Associates. He stacked one garage on top of the other, giving each easy access and privacy. Obviously the first requirement for such a superb site was a home with the best views possible. Windows give a 180

degree view.

As the best views were from upstairs, the living area had. to be on the upper level, with decks on both levels providing indoor/outdoor living. To give each townhouse an identity of its own while retaining a unified appearance, Gavin Willis set one further back from the other. This also allows both to receive maximum sun and views.

The design of each almost mirrors the other, with a slight variation so that the western unit’s kitchen does not literally become an oven in the afternoon. Here a solarium is a useful addition. Each retains privacy and independence.

The owners of the eastern townhouse were happy to leave the design largely to Gavin Willis. Three bedrooms and two bathrooms, maximum views and an open plan living area were their specifications. The exterior cladding materials — cement plaster, or stucco over plywood on a timber frame, painted cream —

require little' maintenance. Aluminium windows are another use of low maintenance materials. The entrance, bedrooms and bathrooms are on the lower level, leaving the upper level for the open plan living area and kitchen.

The smaller size of most of the rooms is only a slight sacrifice to make when moving from a larger family home, said the owners. They do not need more space and have plenty of room for visiting friends and family. The open plan living area and clever use of walls and angles creates the illusion of space and adds interest.

The style of the townhouse is timeless. The dark, exposed beams are a feature in the living area and the stippled ceiling echoes the stucco exterior of the townhouses.

Sliding doors link the living room and the deck. The dining area, set into the small end of the living area, is set apart yet very much part of it.

The owners chose a monochromatic colour scheme for the living area, with walls and curtains toning exactly in a warm, welcoming apricot, a good colour for stimulating conversation. Navy tweed settees and chairs provide a pleasing contrast that is further offset by a neutral-toned carpet. The gallery-shaped kitchen has splendid views and, according to the owners, is a delight to work in. The striking feature is the sloping double-glazed window — the difficulty in cleaning it is its only drawback, the owner said. The bench space is extra wide, in almond formica, with walls in the same shade. Like the dining area, it is part of yet separate from the living area.

An extra wide breakfast bar with seating on three sides forms a link between kitchen and living area. The kitchen joinery is in rimu with plenty of cupboard space and a roomy pantry. Lots of storage space is provided throughout the townhouse.