Brueres Road
Additional Dwelling
The Challenge
Lorraine and Brian loved their 1910 Rangiora villa, but its age brought ongoing maintenance that would only become harder to manage. Meanwhile, their daughter and son-in-law were ready to pursue their long-held goal of living in North Canterbury. Together, the two households began considering a different way forward.
The Brief
The family wanted to purchase a lifestyle block together and build two independent homes that felt connected as one cohesive development. Both needed to accommodate their large extended family, while the parents’ 75m² home had to feel spacious and welcoming despite its compact footprint. Sharing the land also offered both households an opportunity to reduce their mortgage commitments.
The Alterhouse Thinking
With the granny flat limited to 75m², Alterhouse focused the available space on the areas Lorraine and Brian would use most. A one-bedroom, one-bathroom layout allowed for a generous open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, creating room for everyday comfort and family gatherings without squeezing in spaces they did not need.
Every square metre was carefully considered. Reducing the walkway behind the kitchen island by just 100mm gave valuable space back to the dining and living area while retaining a comfortable working zone. Integrating a front-loading washing machine into the island removed the need for a separate laundry, keeping the compact floor plan practical and uncluttered.
The Work
Alterhouse constructed both the main dwelling and the 75m² granny flat, giving each household a home designed around its needs. A consistent architectural style helps the two dwellings sit naturally together within the rural setting, while exterior decking extends the living spaces outdoors and strengthens their connection to the surrounding 10-acre lifestyle block.
The Outcome
Both households now enjoy low-maintenance homes designed for their current lifestyles and future needs. Each has its own private space, while remaining close enough to share the property, support one another and spend time together. For Lorraine and Brian having family next door also provides added reassurance when health challenges arise.
By purchasing the land and building together, both households were able to reduce their mortgages while achieving the North Canterbury lifestyle they wanted. They can share the cost and upkeep of the property without giving up their independence, creating a living arrangement that works personally, practically and financially.
Testimonial
“When we walk in the paddocks and look back at the houses together, we can’t help but think, ‘Wow, look what we’ve achieved.’ We just love coming home.”
Lorraine I Homeowner
Ready to make more of your home?
Tell us what is not working, what you would love to change and what life could look like when the project is finished (You do not need finished plans, perfect answers or a colour-coded spreadsheet).