After two decades of careful evolution, this architect’s own home is now offered to a new custodian — a central Auckland residence that balances considered design with the ease of everyday family life.
Originally a modest bungalow with compromised planning, the house has been reimagined and extended bu Dorrington Atcheson Architects to embrace sun, outlook and connection. The redesign resolves the site’s dual orientations: predominantly north-facing living zones are paired with a south-facing pool courtyard, creating a sequence of spaces that move fluidly between light, shelter and view. Bedrooms have been repositioned to the rear for acoustic calm, while a new two-car garage at street level establishes a clear, private entry in place of the former shared access.
Outdoor living is layered and generous. The garage roof has been reinforced and planted as a north-facing lawn, expanding the usable area and offering an elevated platform for family life. A substantial front deck extends directly from the kitchen, framing sea views and stepping down to the lawn, while timber bifold doors at both front and rear dissolve the boundary between interior and exterior. Internal sliding glass doors allow the plan to be opened or closed as required, supporting both convivial gatherings and quieter retreat.
A defining gesture is the timber-clad modernist box extruded from the rear of the original structure. Cantilevered above the pool terrace, it houses the primary suite, bathroom, office and a secondary living room, with a private deck overlooking the water. Below, the overhang creates a sheltered poolside zone — a shaded, resort-like setting for summer entertaining. From here, stairs rise to a rooftop deck commanding expansive sea and city views.
A restrained material palette provides a calm architectural backdrop, inviting personal expression through art, furniture and the life of its next family.
72 West End Road, Westmere is for sale via Jason Trowbridge of Inner Realty.
