The site is located in Eastbourne, a seaside suburb situated across Wellington Harbour from Wellington City. Layers of hills surround the harbour on two sides creating a varied and interesting topography. The property is steep and borders a large area of native bush reserve and is only accessible by steps and cable car.
It sits high above the other houses in the area and is surrounded by bush and birdsong. The house is composed of two extruded forms. The upper level is kinked to follow the contours of the hill and contain a sheltered upper garden and lawn.
The lower level is a rectangle, following the contours at first then cantilevering out to the view. The point where these two forms separate creates the entry courtyard punctuated by a chimney. The strip like forms are accentuated further by the use of dark corrugated iron cladding and lines of windows and green fibre-cement, which ensures the house is folded into and sits discretely in its setting.
The roof of the living level below forms a large deck for the upper level, a generous outside space floating in an amphitheatre of bush.
An elevated perspective of the location of Francis’ bell house situated on a high mountain.An exterior shot of an open space veranda featuring round tables and chairs, providing a vantage point to take in the stunning view from the high mountain location.A close-up shot of the deck, displaying wooden tables and chairs, providing a comfortable setting for enjoying the natural ambiance and picturesque mountain view.Shot from a high elevation offering a panoramic view, including the ocean, visible from the mountain top.An exterior shot showcasing a spacious deck with a prominent feature of wide glass window panels, providing a seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces.A close-up shot during daytime of the roof deck, displaying the breathtaking view of the verdant mountain landscape.An interior shot of the living room showcasing a shared space for dining and living, featuring a fireplace and furniture that complements the architectural design of the house.An interior shot emphasizing the ample kitchen area, featuring a prominent long kitchen island, and providing a natural light via wide glass windows, offering a picturesque view while cooking.A detailed view of the wooden staircase, highlighting the intricate craftsmanship and attention to detail in its design. The black railings add a modern and elegant touch, complementing the overall aesthetic of the space.Upstairs, the pathway leads to the deck, where a full-height glass door is prominently featured, providing an abundance of natural light and offering access to the outdoor deck area.An interior shot of a minimalistic yet spacious bedroom, with an abundance of natural light streaming in through the large glass windows, creating a serene and inviting ambiance.
