Residential - Harbourside Homes
This Torbay home, designed by Architectural Room, is designed to maximise views in its spectacular setting.
Spanish-style home in unique setting Karen Phelps One of the latest projects completed by Harbourside Homes was challenging due to the sloping nature of the site located right opposite the beach in Rock Isle Road, Torbay, Auckland. “The key was to maximise the views while creating level entry to the courtyards,” explains Kevin Watkins from Harbourside Homes. The Spanish-style home, designed by Architectural Room, comprises 455 square metres with 50 square metres of concrete deck area flowing out from the living area and office. The project, which took 12 months to construct, has a number of distinctive features including a massive ten metre high garage door, curved stone stairwell wall with turret and bell house style atrium entry tower. Expansive stonework grounds the lower level, with the embellished plaster walls and clay tiled roof reminiscent of the traditional Spanish estates of Europe. A feature reflection pond in the north court acts as a skylight to the lower entry foyer and uses natural light to create an ever-changing water reflection on the rear wall of this space.
The interior also features a curved stair case crafted from American Oak timber. The project is typical of the distinctive and high quality homes being created by Harbourside Homes. The Auckland-based company was started around 20 years ago by Watkins and Keith Oldbury who completed their apprenticeships together and then decided to join forces. The pair have been building new residential homes and both minor and major renovation projects ever since as well as building spec homes. They started with one apprentice and now have a team of 12 highly skilled builders who offer a vast level of hands-on practical knowledge and experience. Harbourside Homes manage building projects from conception to completion. Watkins and Oldbury partner with either the client’s team or can recommend a team of architects or draughtsman depending on requirements. “We don’t mass produce houses off standard plans,” says Watkins.
“We design, personalise and build homes that suit peoples lifestyles, whether it be senior living, family, lifestyle, apartment, farmhouse or a batch. “With our expertise we can design and create any kind of intricate or simple space and landscape to suit the client’s specific needs. “From overseeing design, sourcing material, lodging consent to recruiting sub trades and the final product we take care of everything.” The pair say their key point of difference is that they are both on the tools and oversee every job. “We know that for some, building a new home is a daunting prospect. Our team aims to make it as easy as possible for our clients to get exactly what they want. We take a personal hands on approach and focus on attention to detail,” says Watkins. “We do what we say we will and communicate with clients every step of the way. Agreed timelines are closely monitored, and any changes to the original plan are
documented with our clients consent>” Quality is a priority. Watkins and Oldbury are Licensed Building Practitioners and members of the Certified Builders Association of New Zealand. Harbourside Homes has a good team of subtrades which it has used for many years. Premium products sourced from Harbourside Homes’ partners are matched with high quality craftsmanship and attention to detail to ensure a superior finish. “We only use and recommend materials that not only enhance the design but deliver a durable, long lasting finish,” says Watkins. “All products are used to ensure the highest standard to match the construction. Our company has earned an enviable reputation for consistent client satisfaction throughout the Auckland and North Shore region for over 20 years. The standard of customer service we offer is virtually incomparable within the industry and our absolute attention-to-detail guarantees the best results possible and homes that last a lifetime.”
Harbourside Homes 09 478 7477 www.harboursidehomes.co.nz
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