As a long-time Ponsonby local, architect Gerrad Hall reveals that he, “always had a particular hate for the house on this site — even before
I got the job to replace it. Living nearby, I’d often pass it on my neighbourhood walks, so it was quite satisfying to put the bulldozer through it.”
Fortunately, it was something of a guilt-free demolition since the house in question was an unusual three-storey 1980s build that didn’t contribute to the character villa vernacular this part of Tāmaki Makaurau/ Auckland is known for.
Being in a heritage enclave, architectural adherence was an integral part of the design process. “I’ve done a few houses in this zone, and earlier in my career it felt frustrating to have the constraints to work through with council. I probably reacted against it,” admits Gerrad. “Now, with this project, there’s an earnest attempt to work with the detail and materials of the surrounding houses because, ultimately, I love this area. It’s one of the more successful urban contexts that have been built in the country.”

Citing an evolution in his work — offering constructive critique rather than a destructive one — Gerrad set about designing a home that would respond to the surrounding villas, while adopting an architectural language aligned with contemporary living. A gabled roofline extends the length of the building, rising up from a rectilinear base with boxy forms accentuating the moments where joinery from First Windows and Doors is inserted into the structure. 
Setting a strict set of parameters to work within, Gerrad and builders Eagle and Franich have created a striking silhouette with a singular white-on-white approach to the exterior. Where the house differs from its neighbours is the informal floorplan. The flow responds to the topography making the best of the south-west sloping aspect to capture the view and flood the living space with sunlight. 
Stepping over the threshold, there’s a quick shift from public to private space as you arrive at street level and step down into an open plan kitchen, dining and living room. Metro Series sliding doors open to connect to the landscaped backyard and a pool. While both the site and house are narrow, the three metre stud provides verticality, creating a feeling of spaciousness. 

Gerrad collaborated with Yvette Jay Interior Design on a monochromatic scheme that unifies the interior, making space for the busy family life that exists within. There’s a certain tranquility that is achieved through the simplicity of the material selection. 
With an island bench as the focal point, the kitchen spans the southern side of the downstairs living. A pantry and hidden storage occupy one end and, at the other, there’s direct access to the pool through a Metro Series hinged door. Upstairs, bedrooms and bathrooms run the length of the building, with openings letting in even more natural light. 

Reflecting on his connection to the area and his evolution as an architect, Gerrad sees this project not just as another house, but as a meaningful addition to Ponsonby’s architectural story. Blending a contemporary design approach with a deep respect for the neighbourhood’s heritage character, has achieved a delicate balance that complements the area’s charm while accommodating modern family living. 

This home is a testament to Gerrad’s belief that architecture, even on a small scale, contributes to the greater urban fabric, creating spaces that resonate with history, enrich the community and remain relevant for the future.