▲ Overall Architecture
Situated atop Mount Pleasant in Christchurch, New Zealand, this residence offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and river mouth. Designed specifically to harmonize with its landscape and environment, the building reflects a thoughtful integration of nature and architecture.
MC Architecture Studio carefully considered the reciprocal influence between the structure and its environment. The Wall House embodies a design philosophy focused on coexistence with the outdoors. Its fragmented northern façade is deliberately segmented to maximize sunlight exposure while shielding an outdoor living space from prevailing winds. The architecture offers two distinct forms: one projecting towards the northeast corner of the site, and another angling northwest to capture panoramic landscape views.
▲ Southeast Side
▲ Northwest Side
A key aspect of the interior design is the creation of two separate living areas, each offering unique experiences suited to different times of day. The upper east wing opens to the environment, providing stunning views of the bay framed by natural mountain vegetation.
For a more private retreat, residents can descend to the lower living area, designed as a secluded and cozy space. This transition celebrates the journey from the street to the sanctuary of home.
▲ View of Surrounding Landscape from Upper East Level
▲ Expansive Field of Vision
▲ Staircase Leading to the Second Floor
▲ View Toward the Dining and Living Rooms from the Staircase
▲ Dining Room
▲ Wooden Staircase
From the street, visitors experience curiosity and wonder, seen as outsiders to the family and not yet trusted. The street-facing wall conceals the entire residence and its landscape, providing privacy and protection for those inside.
▲ View Toward the South Street from the Southeast Corner of the Building
Approaching the residence, the wall opens slightly, inviting visitors into a transitional space bridging the outer world and inner home. Visitors follow concrete steps and wooden boardwalks into the entrance courtyard, nestled within the wall’s opening.
This narrow courtyard is enclosed by tall white concrete walls, which strongly protect the sense of seclusion. Visitors find themselves in a liminal space between the external environment and the private family domain.
As the white walls fade into the background, attention is drawn to the black tiled door at the path’s end. This door stands independently, with no direct external connection beyond the wall.
▲ Wooden Staircase Leading to the Entrance Courtyard
▲ View of the Swimming Pool from the Stairs
▲ South Courtyard
▲ Narrow Passage Leading to the Entrance
▲ Black Ceramic Tile Door
Once inside the black-tiled doorway, visitors leave behind the enclosing walls and external views fade away. This allows for a full appreciation of the bay’s beauty and the surrounding natural landscape from within the home.
▲ Night View of the Building Exterior
▲ Exterior Night View
▲ Bay View
The residence now offers complete privacy, preserving the sense of seclusion once protected, while welcoming visitors with a sense of security.
Overall, the home balances curiosity and protection of the outside world with an emphasis on comfort, environmental sensitivity, and a secure atmosphere inside.
▲ The Harmony of Architectural Privacy and Aesthetics
Design Drawings:
▲ General Layout Plan
▲ First Floor Plan
▲ Second Floor Plan
▲ South Elevation View
▲ North Elevation View
▲ East Elevation View
▲ West Elevation View
▲ Section A-A
▲ Section B-B
▲ Section C-C
▲ Section D-D
Project Information:
Architect: Max Capocaccia
Location: 15 Hilltop Ln, Mount Pleasant, Christchurch 8081, New Zealand
Building Type: Residential
Building Area: 304.0 square meters
Year Completed: 2018
Architectural Photography: Baptiste Marconnet
Building Manufacturers: Autodesk, ABK, PARADY Ż
Lighting Design Consultant: Lume Design
Engineering Design: PTL Engineering
Landscape Design (BIM Learning): Kamomarsh Landscape Architect
Construction Company: Parsons Architecture
Interior Design: Mooi Design
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