An Extruded Evolution – Poured Pleats by Jack McKinney Architects and Cameron Ireland

Poured Pleats – a contemporary extension to an Edwardian villa – takes cues from the existing structure and extrudes them outwards, creating a compelling addition imbued with intent. Designed by Jack McKinney Architects with interiors by Cameron Ireland, this layered home invites and embraces its surrounds.

This unusual block in Auckland’s Ponsonby boasted two street frontages – one occupied by the existing villa and the other by a large patch of lawn – creating an opportunity for an extension with significant presence and engagement with the street. As such, the architects have created a modern architectural response to the existing home, one which adds amenity and valuable floor space, while capturing natural light and framing views.

The architects have created a modern architectural response to the existing Edwardian villa, one which adds amenity and valuable floor space, while capturing natural light and framing views.

An expressive fine folded roofline in poured concrete sits above the new addition, mimicking the corrugated iron gables of the original house. Through this non-traditional reference to the existing typology, the new feels inherently connected yet entirely individual. And these subtle references continue with concrete weatherboards; although the material differs, the pattern and form has been echoed. Defined by a raw and honest expression of materials, the new immediately embodies its own character, one which will allow for, and invite, the patina and markings of time.

The pleated roof and glazing result in a dramatic space with a focus on connection and light. Large integrated glazing elements open onto the garden to allow for fluidity across thresholds. And inside, this sense of openness encourages visual connection and the sharing of spaces across functions. The more intimate spaces are found in the original home where traditional rooms provide comfort and cosiness. While there is definition between the old and new, there is a shared warmth throughout, with a muted neutral base binding the areas together.

While there is definition between the old and new, there is a shared warmth throughout, with a muted neutral base binding the areas together.

Poured Pleats is both expressive and immersive. Jack McKinney Architects and Cameron Ireland have rooted the future of this home firmly in place through an engaging addition which speaks back to the heritage nature in clever and characterful ways.