Split House is a renovation to a villa in the Auckland suburb of Sandringham. The project involved the design of a new addition that steps gradually through three split levels down to create an easy connection from the living spaces to the landscape. The lofty spaces are enclosed within two dynamic split hip roofs, sarked in cedar and punctuated with high-level windows. A faceted timber screen provides sun shading, while also revealing its colour as one walks across the back yard. The new addition provides a new kitchen, bathroom, living room, media room, dining room and even a purpose-designed ‘G&T nook’. Each space incorporates a large amount of bespoke built-in cabinetry in walnut and warm lighting.

Beneath the primary living spaces, a cellar and bike workshop were also incorporated. The retained heritage fabric of the original villa was also restored using international best practice heritage techniques and principles, while also increasing its performance with all new insulation, central heating, rainwater harvesting system, grey water system and electrical upgrade.