Kilbirnie Terrace
Multi-residential | Wellington
Set within a tight urban grain in Kilbirnie, this project rethinks how medium-density housing can sit comfortably alongside an established neighbourhood.
A series of compact dwellings are arranged as a rhythm of gabled forms, stepping along the site and echoing the scale of surrounding homes. The repetition creates a clear identity while breaking the development down to a more familiar, residential scale.
The architecture is deliberately simple. Strong forms, pared-back detailing, and a restrained material palette allow the buildings to sit confidently without overcomplicating the streetscape.
CONSTRUCTION:
Holmes Construction
Design Approach
The site demanded efficiency - both in planning and construction. Each unit is carefully considered to maximise space, light, and privacy within a compact footprint.
Repeating gable forms create order and identity
Vertical cladding emphasises height and proportion
Openings are placed to balance privacy with natural light
Simple material transitions keep the detailing tight and buildable
The result is a cohesive development that reads as a whole, while still giving each dwelling its own presence.
Context & Fit
Rather than compete with the surrounding mix of older houses, the design takes cues from it — scale, rooflines, and rhythm — and reinterprets these in a contemporary way.
Seen from the street, the development sits comfortably within its context. From above, the repetition of forms gives it a strong, unified presence.
This is density done in a way that feels considered - not forced.
Outcome
Kilbirnie Terrace delivers efficient, well-resolved housing that responds directly to its site and setting.
It’s a project grounded in clarity:
clear forms
clear planning
clear execution
A straightforward approach, well executed - and built to last.
The Holmes Architecture team bring an extra dimension to all projects with practical knowledge and expertise combined with innovative and imaginative architectural design.
