The concept for Glenmore Residences was an ambitious proposal to transform a steep, challenging site in Kelburn into a thoughtfully designed six-unit development. Located adjacent to an existing ten-unit parent site, the project sought to add much-needed housing in one of Wellington’s most desirable suburbs. The design was carefully considered to balance increased density with respect for the neighbourhood’s character, integrating contemporary forms into the established residential fabric.

 

The architectural approach reinterpreted the traditional gabled forms of Kelburn’s Victorian villas. Clad in timber and Colorsteel, the proposed buildings maintained a modest yet refined presence that complemented the surrounding homes. The design aimed to provide privacy, sunlight, and views, with precisely positioned windows and outdoor spaces that screened neighbours while offering access to natural light and shared green spaces. High-spec interiors, energy-efficient systems, and thoughtfully planned layouts ensured the homes would be both beautiful and functional.

 

The project’s internal planning included a shared courtyard and underground parking, maintaining an active, well-surveilled street edge with pedestrian pathways and driveways that subtly improved the streetscape. Building setbacks and heights aligned with the residential rhythm of Glenmore Street, while the scale of the project bridged the outer residential character with the potential for future densification.

 

Though the project met the urban design and planning criteria set by the Wellington City Council’s Multi-Unit Design Guide, its realisation was ultimately hindered by the prohibitive costs of extensive excavation, rock anchoring, and site stabilisation. The steep terrain presented significant challenges, and despite the strong design, construction costs made the project unfeasible.

 

Glenmore Street became another critical learning experience for The Poneke Company, reinforcing the need for innovative approaches to steep and complex sites. This project directly influenced our exploration of modular construction, offering a pathway to deliver high-quality housing solutions that are both efficient and adaptable. It remains an example of how thoughtful, bespoke design can set the stage for more accessible and scalable solutions in the future.