Khandallah House
Renovation to reinvention - What began as a renovation evolved into a full new build on a dramatic hillside site in Wellington.
This contemporary four-bedroom home has been thoughtfully crafted to nestle into its steep site while celebrating its surroundings, with sweeping views across Wellington Harbour.
The project came to life after the clients decided to replace an existing cold, leaky bungalow with a warm, resilient home that truly fit how they wanted to live. Extensive earthworks and complex access challenges were part of the journey, with the house ultimately established on a carved building platform that anchors it confidently into the landscape.
ARCHITECTURAL:
Holmes Architecture
CONSTRUCTION:
Helson Construction
INTERIOR DESIGN:
House Party Interiors
PLANNING CONSULTANT:
Develop Meant Ltd
ENGINEER:
King & Dawson
GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER:
Torlesse Consulting
WINDOWS & DOORS
Sky Windows
The architectural design maximises natural light, native tones, and hillside vistas to create a sense of grounded luxury. Clad in Lunawood timber and non-corrosive aluminium, the home presents a refined yet robust exterior - designed for longevity, low maintenance, and the realities of Wellington’s climate.
Inside, the home balances comfort and sophistication. Interior selections by House Party elevated the vision, with finishes, fixtures, and furnishings chosen to reflect the warmth and texture of the natural environment. Nut-brown kitchen cabinetry, brass accents, and layered textures create a rich, inviting interior palette. Expansive glazing frames harbour views from living spaces, bedrooms, and the pool terrace - making the landscape an everyday backdrop.
Spaces are designed for family living and entertaining, from the scullery with boiling and sparkling water on tap through to the poolside lounge that draws people together. The result is a home where functionality, durability, and beauty work in harmony.
We’re proud to see Khandallah House featured on the cover of Homestyle magazine (May/June 2025) - a celebration of the clients’ trust, the design collaboration, and a site that demanded both creativity and perseverance.
The Holmes Architecture team bring an extra dimension to all projects with practical knowledge and expertise combined with innovative and imaginative architectural design.
