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Mid-century architecture fans walk among us, with the timeless style still enjoying broad appeal 70 years since its appearance in New Zealand.
Lovers of the distinctive minimalist look appreciate the clean lines, bright, open spaces and connection with nature – what we call “indoor outdoor flow” these days – that the homes all enjoy.
In the 1950s, 60s and 70s, modernist architecture redefined New Zealand homes, replacing dark hallways and cramped rooms with open, light-filled spaces oriented toward the landscape. Bold touches of colour and texture added a sense of playfulness and optimism, reflecting the spirit of the post-war era.
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Below we’ve rounded up five examples of mid-century design at its best.
26 Martin Crescent, Northcote | Price by negotiation
Group Architects is the biggest name in New Zealand’s mid-century movement, and purists will recognise founding member James Hackshaw’s signature touches throughout this Northcote home. The split-level design follows the contours of the 930sqm land the four-bedroom home sits on and features native timber panelling, exposed rafters and clerestory windows.
Every door in the house connects to the world outside. The four bedrooms each have stable doors and overextended eaves for shelter, inviting the outside in.
The four-bedroom house at 26 Martin Crescent, in Auckland's Northcote, was designed by Group Architects founding member James Hackshaw. Photo / Supplied
Ray White listing Elaine Ferguson says the Group’s work embodies the mid-century aesthetic. “I’ve sold a few Group homes now, and they’re very well thought-out with a vibe that doesn’t date,” she tells OneRoof.
“This property has only had two owners and is completely original, so it’s up to someone to take it to the next level.”
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8A Gaisford Terrace, Waipukurau, Central Hawke’s Bay | Buyer enquiry over $859,000
This striking four-bedroom home was designed by award-winning Hawke’s Bay architect John Scott, who was renowned for his strong geometric shapes. As well as private homes, he designed several churches, including the internationally recognised Chapel of Fortuna in Wellington.
Large living and dining spaces and the modern kitchen connect to the private courtyard shaded by a Japanese Cherry tree, while the new swimming pool is perfect for summer dips.
8A Gaisford Terrace, Waipukurau, Central Hawke's Bay, was designed by noted architect John Scott. Photo / Supplied
Property Brokers listing agent Molly Baldwin says the property is owned by two brothers who are serious Scott devotees, adding that the house is surprisingly private. “I’ve lived in Central Hawke’s Bay all my life, and you’d never know it was there. It’s in the middle of town but tucked up on a beautiful section,” she says.
“It got all the usual John Scott quirks and the owners have bought back some of the features, so in the hallway, part of the roof is painted orange, while the main foyer is a dark, moody charcoal. There are really cool aspects to it that enhance the architecture.”
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42A Regan Street, Stratford, Taranaki | Price on application
Located on a 6255sqm park-like section and boasting a tennis court, this five-bedroom home is on the market for the first time. The cedar-clad residence was built in 1973 and unfolds in a relaxed, pavilion-style manner, offering five bedrooms, two bathrooms and a handy self-contained lower unit.
Built in 1973 and on the market for the first time is 42A Regan Street, in Stratford. Photo / Supplied
Collective listing agent Sonya Joyce is currently restoring a mid-century home herself, so she knows a thing or two about the movement. She says the original design here is purposeful and beautifully considered.
“Both the home and the swimming pool were placed perfectly for the sun, and there are so many features that scream mid-century, like the large soffit on the south side of the property and many details inside.”
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21 Glengyle Street, Vauxhall, Dunedin | Price by negotiation
Connecting with nature is a key aspect of mid-century design, and this Dunedin residence definitely over-delivers on that front. It’s nestled in the Vauxhall hills and captures incredible, ever-changing views across the city and harbour from its north-facing position.
The three-bedroom mid-century home at 21 Glengyle Street, in the Dunedin suburb of Vauxhall, was extended by architect Ted McCoy in the 1990s. Photo / Supplied
The three-bedroom home was extended in 1998 by renowned Dunedin architect Ted McCoy and gives tranquil treehouse vibes, thanks to its elevated position and huge picture windows bringing the outside in from every angle.
Two separate living areas offer options for chilling out and entertaining, and the generous protected deck is perfect for drinks suspended above the tree canopy.
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71 Tahunatapu Road, Parua Bay, Whangārei | Price by negotiation
Coastal luxury meets mid-century magic at this spectacular Parua Bay estate. The five-bedroom, three-bathroom home is framed by mature kauri and native bush, through which a path winds down to the waterfront for swimming, fishing and launching kayaks.
Inside, the classic clean lines, strong form and rich timber of the original 1970s architectural design have been complemented with modern must-haves to create something quite special, says Ray White listing agent Daniel Foote.
“It has really withstood the test of time, and when renovating, they [the owners] wanted to uphold the integrity of the mid-century style.”
The listing agent for 71 Tahunatapu Road says it is a "true architectural statement". Photo / Supplied
He points out that these homes are solid, enduring and absolutely timeless.
“They just don’t build houses like they used to, full of native timber. You can’t build like that anymore.”
He says the location is also superb. “It’s in an area called The Nook, which is right out on the peninsula and is known to be a safe harbour for yachts to escape storms. If you’re passing the coast and there’s something coming in from the east, you just hook into The Nook.”
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