Papanui, Christchurch
This project is the for a friend of Ying, who has a long-held dream of living in the Papanui area with his family. Indeed, this area is a historically sought-after neighbourhood, with prime houses and some of Christchurch's best public and private schools. In proximity there are upmarket shopping centres, medical facilities, churches, and good transport options, creating a first-class living environment. However, it must be acknowledged that the client is not a multi-millionaire with endless fund, so the design has its limiting factors.
The design of this house considers the following factors:
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It adopts the simplest and elegant contemporary style which became popular after World War II. It is trendy but not extravagant, eye-catching but not exorbitant.
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The material for the exterior envelope is low maintenance yet artistic matched. The black and white bricks create a strong colour contrast. Paired with the warm coloured Corten steel, it is just like a ray of sunshine on snow linen volcanic landscape.
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The floor plans have been fine-tuned to the ultimate efficiency: with a building area of 270m², the design has produced 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 living rooms. The kitchen area includes a small separate Chinese style enclosed kitchenette. Facing the main street is the owner's office, with the office entrance separated to the main entrance. The space has been utilised as rationally and effectively as possible.
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At the time the design, the city plan was expected to change dramatically due to the national intensification policy. With an eye for the future, a piece of land was reserved for a second house. What is now a big garden can be a house with high return in the future.
This design is a typical example of a low-cost luxury.
