Despite some over-zealous painting, there’s no mistaking the modernist lines of this Don D. ‘Hollywood Hills’ pad. Those extended concrete roof beams are visible from the moon and the views over the ocean and alps are epic.

…continue reading 105 Panorama Rd. Don Donnithorne.

Created for a bachelor, well-known Christchurch florist Cliff Belworthy, his cat and two fox terriers. Cliff was adamant he wasn’t prepared to “live in a house like Mrs Jones on the corner” and asked for a house “that no sane person would copy”. His only practical request: “two bedrooms, as far apart as possible”.

…continue reading 49 Clifton Tce. Belworthy House. William Taurau Royal.

A Home & Building award winner in 1947 and pleasingly intact. Houses like this are disappearing faster than you can say “recessed halogen downlights”.

…continue reading 24 Whitewash Head Rd. Stewart Minson.

Everyone loves this house down in Sumner, including us. It’s built on an awfully narrow block, but cleverly uses open plan living on the upper level to make the most of the space and view – unheard of in 1945. Originally filled with Garth Chester plywood furniture, which Pascoe admired, the house has been nicely updated over the years and still stands out for all the good reasons.

…continue reading 58 Colenso St. Piano House. Paul Pascoe

These cleverly designed seaside townhouses are built on a staggered footprint which means views for all and a communal cricket pitch. Six-and-out, electric wickets.

…continue reading 53 Beachville Road. Warren & Mahoney.