Penscroft is a grand early 20th-century residence that, by the time our clients took ownership, was in clear need of rejuvenation. The house had sustained significant damage during the 2011 Canterbury earthquake, its layout reflected a bygone era, and the roofing systems, particularly the internal gutters, had reached the end of their serviceable life.

The brief required targeted seismic strengthening, particularly around the original brick fireplaces and chimneys, alongside a careful reworking of the internal planning to support contemporary living. At the same time, the building envelope needed to be reconsidered, with roof forms and drainage systems re-resolved to ensure long-term durability.

Central to the project was a commitment to retain the architectural integrity of the original home. The challenge was to intervene in a way that felt seamless, where new work sat comfortably within the existing fabric. The ambition was that the transformation would be so well integrated the house would appear largely untouched, preserving its character while quietly bringing it forward for another generation.

Behind the preserved façade, Penscroft has been comprehensively rebuilt and strengthened to meet contemporary standards. The internal structure has been re-engineered, with particular focus on reinstating the original brick chimneys and fireplaces, which were dismantled and reconstructed to retain their presence while ensuring seismic resilience