Client: North Shore Residence
Architect/Designer: Don Nelson Architecture | Malloch Architecture

Interior Designer: Jessica Valintine Design
Project: New Build

This extraordinary beachfront home stands as one of the most complex and technically demanding projects SIR Builders has ever undertaken. Designed by the late Don Nelson — a visionary whose creativity and “left-of-centre” thinking continually pushed boundaries — this home is one of the final projects he worked on. It was a privilege to bring his concept to life and to continue the build in his memory. I like to think we’ve done him proud.

From the very beginning, this project demanded an exceptional level of collaboration, innovation and persistence. The clients were deeply involved in every stage, with a clear and uncompromising vision. Their love of form and fluidity led to a design where almost nothing is straight — curves upon curves upon curves define this remarkable home. The result is less a traditional residence and more a sculptural piece of architecture.

 Seawall and Foundations

The build began in April 2018 with the construction of the seawall — an enormous challenge in itself. Imagine creating a curve on a curve on a curve, all while the tide rolled in every twelve hours to undo the day’s progress. There were no straight lines, no easy measurements, and no surveyor on site for the entire eight months of this stage. Developing construction methods that were accurate, repeatable and cost-effective was essential. This ingenuity laid the foundation for everything that followed.

 Engineering the Impossible

Following the seawall, we excavated the subterranean basement — a feat that required holding up two mature pōhutukawa trees and the neighbouring property, all while working within a site comprised almost entirely of sand. Space was at an absolute premium, with the house and pool maximising every inch of the section.

 What began as a plan soon evolved into a living, changing concept. Windows, cladding, roof structure and even major concrete elements were redesigned as the project progressed. Each alteration demanded creative problem-solving and precision craftsmanship.

 Features and Innovation

Triple-glazed curved joinery – including a triple-stacking, triple-sliding door system (a world first)

GRC curved soffit, formed while wrapping around the home’s flowing architecture

Ground source heating – four boreholes drilled 150 metres deep

Cantilevered glass staircase and curved steelwork

Aluminium clad turret staircase

Front door

Home and Landscape Integration

 This residence includes every modern luxury:

Rooftop entertainment deck with full outdoor kitchen and spa

In-ground heated pool and sauna

Lift

Solar field with emergency backup batteries and generator

Smart-wired home and garden systems, including sound, security and irrigation

Rain-harvesting system with dual-purpose water storage

Car turntable and four-car garaging

Reflection pond and extensive bespoke landscaping

SIR Builders delivered every aspect of this project — from the seawall and concrete structure through to framing, exterior joinery, fibrous plaster templating, LED and feature lighting, and the intricate ceiling and soffit designs. We also designed and built the reflection pond, planters, pivot gates, custom hatches, and even the finer details such as trackless and internal doors, bespoke toilet roll holders, and concealed mechanisms throughout.

Many of the products were designed and prototyped by our team, requiring us to learn, invent and refine processes beyond traditional building practice.

 A Project Like No Other

Spanning nearly eight years, this build tested every tradesperson and professional involved to the very limits of their craft. It challenged conventional thinking at every turn, demanding creativity, discipline and absolute precision. The result is a breathtaking, one-of-a-kind home that pushes the boundaries of modern construction.

It was, without question, the most difficult and rewarding project we have ever completed. I’m proud of what we achieved — a testament to ingenuity, perseverance, and the exceptional skill of the SIR Builders team.

Client: Lundie Family
Location: Cockle Bay
Architect/Designer: Don Nelson Architecture
Project: Renovation/New Build

Originally two separate properties each with a house and swimming pool, these were demolished, one in entirety and the other to the original footprint, to make way for this new luxury, resort style residence which spans the two sites. With stunning views from the clifftop site overlooking the Cockle Bay estuary and out to Beachlands.

This was a three year build where SIR Builders undertook all aspects, from the original demolition, new build foundation stage right through to the extensive landscaping contract. I worked extremely closely with the landscape architect, interior designer and client to ensure their vision was made possible. The technical ability and know-how to achieve these results was through our ingenuity and extensive experience in the high end residential building market.

The project consisted of five double bedrooms all with en-suites. Expansive living areas, which also included AV, games and sun rooms.

An unique feature of the home was the 27m long indoor, heated swimming pool complete with separate spa pool. Such a large body of heated water within the home presented a challenge which had to be dealt with. An air-curtain was installed to manage the moisture levels within the room, this system enabled the room to have five complete air changes per hour. Access to the pool could also be achieved, directly from the living area, via a lift.

Space within the design was made for a gardeners/potters area and custom built fish filleting station.

To run such a large home required three separate, internal utility rooms. These housed the likes of the European heating system. Another the pool plant heating and equipment. And lastly, the home automation racks and electrical distribution boards - which apart from lighting and audio throughout the home, also ran the garden irrigation and security system.

The house was clad in an aerated concrete panel and flanked with stone buttresses, which was imported specifically from Greece for this project. The roofing material was aluminium powder-coated, standing seam, tray roofing. Thermal broken, double glazed aluminium was installed throughout the project. Bespoke cabinetry to all bathrooms, kitchen and living spaces.

And last, but certainly not least the final stage of the project was the landscaping. From a curved flowing stair case, custom designed water feature, English potteiger garden, extensive paving, block work and planters and over 3,500 plants - the landscaping was a 12 month contract. Every inch of this job was intricately thought out, right down to the bespoke clothesline and one of a kind compost bins.

The clients were a pleasure to work with and it was a privilege to be part of this project. We thoroughly enjoyed the entire process. The end result was a breath-taking sanctuary, that feels very surreal when I return to visit.

Dairy Flat Residence

Client: Northin Residence
Architect/Designer: Malloch Architecture

Interior Designer: Jessica Valintine Design
Project: New Build

Client: McManus Residence
Location: Whenuapai
Architect/Designer: Brent Hulena
Project: Renovation

With a cladding of solid plaster over block work, a fibreglass roof, aluminium joinery and a look of angular strength, this four bedroom home, designed by Hulena Architects of Auckland, answers the owners wish for an urban type home with a refined industrial aesthetic – a strong looking minimalistic haven to return to.

Steel, glass and concrete, with strong rectangular exterior shapes, is softened by the dentil-like detailing around the roof line.

A row of columns, with a rectangular water feature to one side, defines the entranceway and leads to the pivoted steel front door - virtually invisable when open.

Client: Dennis Residence
Location: Browns Bay
Architect/Designer: Don Nelson Architecture
Project: Renovation

This outstanding cliff-top home is the result of an extensive renovation of an existing house.

The architects, Don Nelson Architecture, created this contemporary Mediterranean style home. Its sweeping roof line and matching curved patio, with all ground floor rooms opening to an outdoor living area and pools, provides a highly distinctive feature. Curved cut-outs in the roof visually lighten the structure and bring additional daylight onto the patio.

Client: Gould Residence
Location: Parnell, Auckland
Architect/Designer: Nicholas Stevens
Project: Renovation

Extensive renovation converted an existing Parnell residence to a large contemporary home with ample guest amenities.

By completely redesigning the existing spaces, in which the original kitchen became the audio visual room, and creating an indoor-outdoor flow to the pool and spa, through floor to ceiling sliding doors, architect Nicholas Stevens provided the owners with a stylish 21st century home.

The renovation was completely re-floored with American Oak throughout and solid plaster cladding was chosen for the exterior. Timber louvres to the second level enhanced the structure and provided diffused daylight for the bedrooms.

Client:  Richards & Perrot Residence

Location:  Parnell

Architect/Designer:  Don Nelson Architecture

Project:  Renovation

Another Don Nelson Architecture project.  A change from his signature style with sharp lines and flamed black granite floors which flowed from the inside, out to the pool area. 

This three storey home included 3 double bedrooms, three bathrooms, two lounges, family room, study and rumpus rooms.

The building challenge on this project was definitely the two cantilevered flamed black granite staircases, which connected the three levels of the home.  The clients brief for the staircase was to be hanging off the wall, completely unsupported. To have granite as the stair treads and a glass handrail, to be hanging from the treads, with minimum fixings. So in lay-men’s terms, the client wanted something extremely heavy (granite), to float to a handrail (generally rigid) in glass, with no attachment to the floor or the wall to support any of this. All of which had to meet the New Zealand Building Code.

The staircase and handrail was deemed unachievable by both designers and engineers. I took on this challenge to achieve the clients vision and the results were stunning. Obviously the engineer had to be on board with the clients vision and willing work outside of their ‘normal’ box. My angle to have him on board was to say “How can two Rolls Royce engines, hang off a 747 aircraft wing, which is full of fuel? It’s only a staircase.” This was the hook I needed for him to work with me on this engineering task. Thanks to Richard at MSC Engineers, we made it possible.

The home was designed and built while the owners were travelling overseas, on a once in a lifetime world trip.  We would update the clients each week via email -when their internet connection allowed, as sometimes they were deep in the Congo or Amazon! - providing photos, progress reports and site gossip. There was regular in-depth discussions and decision making via email or Skype. The clients visited the site only two-three times during the two year project.

There was a huge amount of collaboration between ourselves, client, designer and engineers to achieve the clean look the client desired.

The highlight of this project was definitely when we handed the keys over two days before Christmas. Standing in the entrance atrium, the client burst into tears as they were overwhelmed with their new home. Nice to have a job which brings these types of moments..

Client:  Redwood Family

Location:  Devonport

Architect:  Malloch Architecture

Project:  Renovation

Restoration and alteration of a 1920's villa in Devonport.

Project included the addition of an AV room, bedroom and ensute to the lower level.  Mid-level was a bedroom conversion to kitchen extension with new bay window and guest powder-room.  On the third level a new dormer extension was constructed for an en-suite, along with a walk in wardrobe and open plan master bedroom.

The original builders of this home were absolute craftsmen.  The challenge had been set down, going into this project, to match or better their level of precision and beauty.  A very humbling experience to walk into a home with so much fine timber work.

Months were spent completing the finishing lines on this project.  Architraves, scotias, battening, bolection moldings, sills, tongue and groove  - all made from specially run cedar to match imperial measurements.  

Client: Forgie Residence
Location: Remuera
Project: New Build

Architecturally designed with honed block and weatherboard and only the highest quality products were specified. Detailed to perfection as only an architectural home can be. Built into a steep embankment, extensive ground works and foundations were required.

Client testimonial

"We found Sir Builders, reliable, technically competent and very knowledgeable on standards and building codes. They never accepted second best, had a good eye for detail and came up with many practical building solutions.’

‘We felt they treated the building of our home as though it was their own, the site was always tidy and work well organised and performed safely.’

‘We will gladly use Sir Builders again on our next project and are happy to recommend them."

Gary Forgie and Vanessa Playle

Location: Albany
Architect/Designer: Claire Walker
Project: New Build

Stack-bonded block, weatherboard and titan board were the designer's pallet of choice for this project. Polished concrete floors and substantially large glazing units created a sleek, modern living space which complement and make the most of the home's position - nestled into a block of native kauri forest.

The magic of this home probably lies with the 30+ steel beams that went into creating the large open spaces, including a suspended bridge hung off a cantilevered kitchen canopy above the main living/dining ara.

The challenges with this type of build are working within the tiniest of tolerances.

Client: McQuillan Residence
Location: Albany
Architect/Designer: Architectural Loft
Project: Renovation

Designer Architectural Loft designed this modern styled home around an existing house.

Adding a new lounge, study, master-bedroom with ensuite, gym, double garaging and a party deck, resulted in a spacious, well proportioned home. The original native T&G flooring was matched to provide a continuity of golden toned warmth throughout.

Outside the walls were clad with timber bevelback weatherboards, and panels of Zincalume and Insulclad to form an attractive mix of textures. The Zincalume curved roof adds a further touch of contemporary flair.

Client: Silk Residence
Location: Bayswater
Architect/Designer: Silk Design
Project: Renovation

This classic villa was revitalised inside and out with a new extension and renovation of the kitchen and bathrooms.

Client: Donovan family
Location: Birkenhead Point
Architect/Designer: Silk Design
Project: Renovation

Re-clad in blackened shiplap vertical cedar weatherboard and re-roofed,  this family home was fully transformed and brought home into the 21st century. With double glazing, full insulation, a solid plaster fireplace, wrap around decks and dormer windows - it is now a home which can be enjoyed all year round.

Client: Viganoni Residence
Location: Orewa
Architect/Designer: Roger Nelson
Project: New Build

A large 500 sq metre home over 12 split levels. This home takes full advantage of the northern sun, all rooms bathed in sun. Fantastic views over Orewa and the sea. Clad in linear weatherboard and plaster. The owners, originally from Milan, asked for Macrocarpa timber floors throughout. All landscaping completed by SIR Builders including suspended concrete slabs and steel pergoda work.

Client Testimonial

"It was the first time we had built, and it was a difficult build, but the final result was astonishing. We wanted a perfect job even if it cost more than usual due to the complexity of the land and the superior finish that I expected. Being very fussy, we are very happy to have achieved the result we wanted.

We made a lot of variations to the original plans, which we discussed and Dionisios (Sir Builders) helped me to find new solutions and ideas. The best thing about Dionisios (as well as his skill and professionalism) is that he always acted in my best interest’.

We recommend Sir Builders to anyone who wants ‘something different’ built to a high standard - and - to be able to sleep at night.

Please feel free to contact us for more information.’

Franco and Rosa Viganoni

Client: Smith Residence
Location: Hauraki Corner
Project: Addition and Renovation

Complete renovation to this original 1950s home.