Hardcourt House as featured on Grand Designs NZ

JULY 2O25

Holmes Architecture is proud to see Hardcourt House featured on Grand Designs NZ, appearing in Season 9, Episode 6 on TVNZ. Located in Paraparaumu, the project showcases a confident architectural response to suburban family living - balancing privacy, light and strong material expression.

Designed as a contemporary two-level residence, the five-bedroom home brings together robust construction with carefully considered living spaces. The ground floor sits on a concrete slab, while timber joists form the upper level, with portal frames spanning the main living areas to allow generous glazing and open, light-filled interiors.

At the centre of the home, the open-plan kitchen, dining and living area acts as the heart of the house. Large sliding doors extend the space to a covered outdoor living area and swimming pool, creating a sheltered courtyard that feels both private and connected to the landscape. This arrangement allows the family to move easily between indoor and outdoor spaces, making the most of the site and Wellington’s coastal climate.

The architectural language of the house is defined by a strong material palette. Abodo Vulcan timber screens wrap the upper level, creating rhythm and depth across the façade while providing privacy and sun control. These are paired with vertical Flashclad Euroline panels and solid plaster elements, all anchored by a sleek standing seam metal roof.

The vertical timber fins create a dynamic outer layer to the home, casting changing shadows across the façade throughout the day while softening the building’s scale within the neighbourhood.

Chris Stevens, Head Design Lead at Holmes Architecture, says the design was driven by the idea of layering - using materials and structure to shape light, privacy and movement around the home.

“The timber screening creates a protective outer skin to the house. It filters light, adds privacy and gives the building a sense of rhythm and depth from the street. Inside, the layout opens up to the courtyard and pool so the living spaces feel generous and connected, but still sheltered.”

A bright yellow entry door marks the threshold to the home, providing a moment of colour and warmth within the otherwise restrained palette. Internally, large windows and sliding doors ensure the living areas remain filled with natural light, reinforcing the connection between architecture, landscape and family life.

The feature on Grand Designs NZ offers viewers a closer look at the thinking behind the project and the craftsmanship involved in bringing the home to life - highlighting how thoughtful design can transform a suburban site into a distinctive and highly liveable family home.