(under construction)
Nestled at the foothill of Peninsula Hill in Queenstown, this new home is designed for a young family of four, embracing the dramatic landscape of its unique one-acre site. Defined by rocky outcrop formations and rugged alpine vegetation, the property offers a breathtaking north-to-east outlook across the terrain toward the Remarkables and Peninsula Hill.
Positioned on the relatively level southwestern portion of the site, the home consists of a single-level main house and a secondary studio/garage unit. It is constructed with lightweight timber framing on a concrete slab, and clad in profiled corten steel, horizontal timber weatherboards, and a fluted masonry veneer pedestal foundation. This combination lends the home a rural and rustic yet refined character, allowing it to sit naturally within its rugged surroundings. The interiors reflect this aesthetic in a more polished way, providing a warm and functional retreat for family living.
Design Architect SGA ltd
Detail Architect Ayres Architects
Builder Precision Builds
(work in progress)
A home between Wanaka & Hawea for a young family of four. The four bedroom house is arranged to frame the many mountain vistas while respecting the harsh Central Otago climate.
As you approach, the house mimics the silhouettes and becomes an extension of the distant Mount Alpha & Roys Peak. The warm timber interior carved out from the ironsand body draws the user in and through into the main living wing where they're met with a framed view of Mount Maude and the striking line up of mountain peaks to the North and West.
The outdoor courts on both sides of the living wing provide outdoor living options based on sun and wind conditions. The large covered canopy over the northwestern court provides shade from the afternoon summer sun as well as shelter from rain and snow for cozy winter nights by the outdoor fireplace.
(under construction)
A new bach in Whangamata, designed for practical and relaxing year-round living. It consists of four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, dining and living area, laundry, internal storage, garden tools and toys storage, and a covered outdoor area, all within 145 sqm.
A clerestory window on the northwestern elevation maximizes daylight and solar gains in the winter months, while recessed window heads along this elevation provide summer afternoon shade.
The materials and colour palette reflect Whangamata's beachy bach vibes, while also adhering to the builder’s standard specifications and budget.
(completed 2022)
NZ bach living is all about beach time and relaxing in the sun with family and friends. ‘Follow the Sun’ embodies this, offering a coastal retreat designed for flexible relaxation.
The bach has two zones over two levels. The upstairs ‘adults zone’ includes the main living spaces and bedroom suite with front and rear views and sunny nooks. The downstairs ‘young-adults zone’ features a garage, two guest bedrooms, a bunk room, bathroom, and rumpus room leading to a rear courtyard that captures the afternoon sun.
Two covered outdoor spaces on opposite sides of the upper level provide options for day and year-round living based on the sun and wind conditions, with views of Bream Bay to the North and a manuka-filled valley to the South.
The bach is built with lightweight timber on a concrete slab, and clad in painted plywood and profiled metal. Timber weatherboards and slats highlight the openings and outdoor spaces, creating a tactile experience. Inside, neutral plasterboard is complemented by painted wood panelling, American white ash timber slats, and birch plywood on selected cabinetry and ceilings, adding warmth to the entry and living areas.
Architect SGA ltd
Nic's Role Lead Coordinator
Builder Blueprint Construction
Photographer Jackie Meiring
(under construction)
This new home in Mount Maunganui, designed to maximize a tight site, rises from the road to capture ocean views over the houses in front. The ground level features a double-height entry foyer, large garage, and utility space. The first level, the heart of the home, includes a spacious kitchen and dining area opening to a northeast outdoor dining space with ocean views. A northwest covered outdoor area on the other side of the kitchen and dining area captures the afternoon sun and leads down to the pool along the side of the house. Inside, you'll find a media room, family room, three bedrooms, a bathroom, and a laundry. The second level houses the main bedroom suite and office space, offering a private retreat from the bustle downstairs with panoramic ocean views to the east & views of the Tauranga port to the west.
The materiality reflects its coastal environment. The house is founded on an off-board in-situ concrete base, anchoring it firmly in the sand dune. The upper portion is clad with a cedar rainscreen, offering protection from the elements and a warm, natural aesthetic that will weather to a silver patina, reminiscent of driftwood in the coastal elements.
Architect SGA ltd
Nic Ayres' Role Lead Coordinator
(completed 2020)
The additions and alterations to this beautiful heritage-protected home focused on two areas: The upper level saw the extension of an existing bedroom and the addition of a new bathroom; and the rear of the lower level saw the addition of a new kitchen/dining space, updates to the covered outdoor living area, a connection made down to the west-facing yard and existing pool, and an extension to the garage below.
A large sliding timber joinery unit allows the kitchen/dining area to open completely to the outdoor space and yard below, creating a seamless flow for the clients to enjoy their private Balmoral oasis.
Architect SGA ltd
Nic Ayres' Role Lead Coordinator
Builder Heartwood Building
Kitchen Studio Italia
Photographer Ross Keane