When one explores the Wellington suburb of Karori, the architectural diversity becomes apparent. There may be a 1940s weatherboard bungalow siting on the street boundary, shouldered by a 1980s brick townhouse, overlooked by a 1930s art deco house nestled in bush on the hillside. Norfolk Terraces adds to this diversity, being part of the increasing prevalence of multi-residential living.

Consisting of 17 townhouses with a mix of 2 and 3 bedrooms, Norfolk Terraces caters to a variety of people. Stemming from the clients brief of making efficient use of the site while capturing sun and views, the development is separated into 5 blocks, progressively stepping down the site to form an interesting community within the wider Karori community. Shared stairwells and pathways opens up opportunity for residents to engage and interact, while individual private spaces allow for retreat and seclusion.

The overarching concept was to provide a sense of individuality but retain a united front, combined with relief spaces in the form of planting, access or community areas. Playful roof lines, paired with strong brick sawtooth gables, punched in entry porches and dark clad bookend forms, gives both an awareness of individual townhouses and unification with the wider development.