In the heart of Grey Lynn, Light Catcher reimagines a classic villa with a sensitive alteration designed to transform a narrow, south-facing site into a calm, light-filled retreat. The new L-shaped plan wraps around a shallow reflection pond, drawing light and movement into the centre of the home. Long internal sightlines, varied ceiling volumes, and clerestory glazing to the north and west maximise natural light while maintaining respect for the compact urban setting. The result is a serene, spatially layered home that combines traditional materials with a contemporary architectural form.

For José Gutierrez Ltd, a key design priority was preserving the strong architectural expression of the villa’s pitched roof. To achieve this, a low-profile mid-level roofline was introduced to visually emphasise the pitched volume above. This required a membrane system capable of performing reliably on very low-slope surfaces without compromising long-term weatherproofing.

The site conditions also called for a cold roof build-up with integrated ventilation. Alongside performance, the design team sought clean detailing and robust materials to simplify construction and ensure long-term durability.

The Nuraply 3PM two-layer membrane system was chosen for its proven performance on low-slope timber substrates, making it ideal for the home’s subtle rooflines. Its CodeMark certification provided additional assurance around compliance and durability.

Custom scuppers ensured efficient drainage, while Nuraglaze delivered a precise, watertight finish at key junctions.

Completed in 2023, the build progressed smoothly with minimal complications. The simplicity of the detailing, combined with the use of concrete cladding, timber substrates, and the Nuraply system, ensured a refined and enduring result.