Rising to the challenge of a long, narrow Grey Lynn site, this classic villa transitions into a triumphant contemporary ‘stage’ for living where you hardly know if you’re in or you’re out. We added character details and now it looks pretty as a picture in front. Beyond the hallway and bedrooms, the clients’ love of mid-century modern sets a sumptuous tone. Everything is based on that idea. We chose all other furniture to complement the sideboard the client owned, for which we created the perfect position. It’s an extensive renovation with a gallery containing cave-like spaces – a storage-packed scullery, laundry and media room - between the existing house and a sundrenched living, dining, kitchen addition featuring a high timber acoustic ceiling. Glass walls dissolve boundaries for instant connection to the outdoors. Sheltered terraces in the carefully considered north-facing garden have outdoor fireplaces and a lap pool runs the length of the new addition. Every part of this small site was carefully planned to be relaxing, sophisticated and liveable.