Residential project

Wicht House

Client:
Private
Location:
Christchurch New Zealand
Delivered:
2021

Wicht House, a premium residence on Scarborough Hill, Christchurch, sustained significant damage to its cedar and limestone cladding during the 2010 earthquake sequence. Noordanus Architects Ltd documented the existing structure and developed a comprehensive design package to guide the remediation and reinstatement works.

The design phase required careful coordination and complex detailing, responding to varied cladding types and intricate roof geometry. Recommendations included upgraded cladding systems, revised joinery detailing, and improved drainage strategies to meet E2/AS1 compliance and mitigate future water intrusion. Retaining the original Tasmanian oak beams within the bay window was a key client priority; this was achieved through the integration of a clear roof light system aligned precisely with the new roof form.

The project also involved amending an existing consent to secure a Code Compliance Certificate, a process successfully facilitated by Noordanus Architects Ltd. Although site observation was limited, targeted subcontractor coordination ensured the quality of execution. The completed restoration delivers a durable and refined outcome, preserving the home’s architectural character while enhancing its performance and longevity.

Contractor: Boss Construction
Photographer: John Doogan