
CLIENT
Family Trust
LOCATION
Grey Lynn, Auckland
COMPLETED
2024
CATEGORY
Residential
AWARDS
2025 Te Kahui Whaihanga Auckland Architecture Award – Housing
Infill housing done well – a new home which maximises the potential of a challenging and compact inner Auckland rear site.

Tucked into a steep, native tree-lined site in Grey Lynn, Sefton House redefines what’s possible for compact family living in the inner suburbs.
Inspired by Wellington’s hillside suburbs, this 150m² family home carefully steps with the land—maximising light, views, and privacy, while preserving native vegetation.



Black Colorsteel cladding and oiled cedar create a striking yet understated exterior, while warm plywood and timber interiors bring a natural, inviting feel. A true exemplar of infill housing done right, proving that compact homes can be both thoughtful and beautiful.

2025 Te Kahui Whaihanga Auckland Architecture Award Jury Citation:
“This is a welcoming family home that manages to overcome its steep and constrained context. Informed by Wellington housing typologies, the architect-owners have created a sectionally rich, raking gabled house that feels much larger than its modest size and unlocks expansive south-west views. Plywood wall linings and timber floors make for a warm and glowing interior, offsetting the more recessive and prosaic metal exterior cladding.”


PROJECT TEAM
- Ben Sando
- Pam Sando
- Simon Arms