After many years living overseas, this couple made the decision to return home and put down roots on the West Coast.
The site itself was both spectacular and demanding. It was steep, remote, and surrounded by native bush. While challenging, it was exactly this environment that shaped their vision. As they explored building options, Lockwood stood out as the natural choice, perfectly suited to the bush setting and offering the reassurance of proven earthquake resilience.
Having spent years in compact apartments, their brief was clear: space, connection to the outdoors, and a home that was easy to live in and maintain (no painting required!) Despite wanting to capture outstanding southern views, careful design ensured the home would still get solar gains throughout the day. Highlight windows draw in morning sun from the north, while large gable-end glazing floods the kitchen with natural light. The result exceeded expectations, with the couple delighted by how much sunshine the home enjoys, including the southern deck being a sunny morning coffee spot.
At the heart of the home, a central fireplace provides warmth, with the timber construction helping retain heat efficiently, creating a comfortable environment year-round.
Material and colour selections were thoughtfully considered to complement the surroundings. A muted, earthy palette allows the home to sit quietly within the landscape. Inside, window frames are finished to match the joinery, ensuring the uninterrupted bush views remain the hero. Underfoot, grey-green tiles run throughout the main areas, grounding the interior and reinforcing the connection to the natural environment.
Lighting was another key consideration. Working alongside a lighting designer, who brought first-hand experience living in a Lockwood home, the couple developed a layered lighting plan that balances ambience and function. With high ceilings and timber interiors, this attention to detail has paid off, creating spaces that are softly lit yet practical, eliminating the need for additional floor lamps while still providing perfect light for evening activities like a game of cards at the dining table.
Reflecting on the process, there are only a few things they might adjust, such as a slightly larger office and guest bedrooms, but overall, they are thrilled with their home.
The early stages of the project were supported by the Rotorua and Christchurch Sales and Design teams, whose knowledge and input helped shape the design. Construction was then entrusted to the Lockwood West Coast team, led by Ken Drummond Builders based at Lake Brunner. On a complex and challenging site, his steady, positive approach made a lasting impression. Nothing was ever too difficult, and that confidence carried through the entire build, ultimately making the experience as rewarding as the finished home itself.
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