For Tony and Sue, their new home was about sharing the space they have been able to create with their family and friends. Having lived abroad for many years, they came back home to be with their daughter who works for DOC in Otago and celebrated the arrival of their first grandchild. Deciding to settle in Wanaka, they originally worked with a local architect to create design concepts for their steep site. These were eventually discarded as they did not work for either their budget or their lifestyle.
Chris Fraser and his local Lockwood team in Wanaka walked the land with them. He was cognisant of their original ideas and directive to capture as much natural light as possible. Tony and Sue were wanting to incorporate covered outdoor living and entertainment areas and passive house features, making the most of their north-facing views. They also briefed the local Lockwood team on their requirement for a second 60m2 smaller dwelling. This was to cater for overflow family and friends and serve an investment purpose as an Airbnb rental on the same site.
Chris suggested that they use the Pavilion plan as their starting point for the main house design which was customised to suit the clients’ requirements, and the smaller Haven design for the rental unit, which both worked out beautifully. The Pavilion’s architectural styling allowed for open, connected spaces and lofty light filled volumes through the gallery. It was sited lower than the Haven, providing privacy for both occupants whilst maintaining views.
Tony and Sue enjoy being outdoors. They can often be found hiking, cycling, and embracing all the natural splendour of the region. A soaring wing with stunning cantilevered laminated beams and large joinery openings in the Pavilion design, captured the natural connection they desired with their environment.
There is a real feel of space in this 164m² home, cosy in winter and a welcoming breeze through in the summer. Tony and Sue created an office space which could be shut off from the open living areas when needed. They used their second bedroom to create a separate media room with sliding barn doors painted in soft burgundy. Polished concrete floors through the main living and hallway are stylish and functional. A vent-free bio-ethanol fireplace has been included in the living area.
Looking to support Wanaka based industry, the sustainably sourced redwood table tops, serving bench on the covered porch, and bench seats were supplied by a local timber craftsman, as was the schist work which came from Cluden Stone Quarry.
They approached another community-based lead light artist, Jennifer Robertson, who crafts scenes celebrating indigenous birdlife, about a feature window. This bespoke piece of art glasswork now sits proudly above the front door in the gallery.
Taking inspiration from the Textura Black joinery and modern blonded timber interior, three striking David Trubridge Floral pendant lights make a statement through the central area. A Kina pendant with a flatter aspect perfectly suit the living area. Soft muted tones with a touch of Moroccan flavour carries through in the warm bronzes, coppers and burgundy hues which have been selectively highlighted with teal pieces, all collected by Tony and Susan on their travels.
They are thrilled with their new home and happy to report their Haven almost constantly booked out. If you have been frustrated on your architectural design journey, talk to our team. We design, for good.
Contact us to start your home building journey today.
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