Residential project

McKee Townhouses

Client:
Developer
Location:
Christchurch New Zealand
Delivered:
2014

Set on the Village Green within a park-like setting of established trees and historic buildings, this project involved the design of two new townhouses that respond sensitively to their surroundings. A stone street wall was the only remnant of a former residence on the site, and was retained and carefully adapted as part of the new design, reinforcing the site’s historical character.

The architecture adopts clean, relaxed lines with a restrained material palette. Dark stained cedar cladding references the creosote finishes historically used in the area, paired with contemporary elements including anodised aluminium joinery and louvres, composite aluminium soffits, and exposed aggregate paving. Additional local stone was introduced into the landscape and garage walls, further strengthening the connection to the site’s heritage.

Both homes are oriented to the north, maximising sunlight and outlook while creating strong indoor–outdoor relationships. Generous glazing and outdoor living areas allow the houses to engage directly with the surrounding landscape, resulting in dwellings that feel both contemporary and grounded in their historic setting.