Villa Cuba
A little goes a long way
Andrew and Carolyn returned to Whanganui with a broadened view of the world and a vision for how architecture could shape their family’s future. Their chosen canvas was a 1908 villa with character, charm, and plenty of potential. In choosing to renovate, they saw an opportunity to honour the past while creating something deeply personal (but also daring!). The result is a home that balances heritage with innovation, where old bricks meet modern design ideas.
Design with intention
The project began by removing a tired lean-to and re-imagining the kitchen as a bold cube emerging from the villa’s original foundation bricks.
A glazed link stitched old and new together. An old billiards room gained a new purpose: housing Carolyn’s jewellery studio and the laundry. The bathroom was transformed into a sanctuary, where natural light spills over a luxurious bath, turning everyday rituals into moments of calm.
Collaboration at its core
Andrew and Carolyn were hands-on throughout, from salvaging bricks to crafting bespoke light fittings. Their energy and creativity shaped every detail. Black Pine tuned into their unconventional style, offering ideas that pushed boundaries (rubber cladding, anyone?) and helped refine them with care and precision.
This is a home that feels cohesive, connected, and full of heart.
Villa Cuba is a New Zealand
Institute of Architects Western Architecture Award Winning Project
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