This private residence is a short drive from the South Island town of Wanaka. Surrounded by mountain ranges, the rural setting is one of outstanding natural beauty. The changing seasons and weather patterns interplay with the breathtaking landscape beyond. The setting is varied and memorable, almost theatre like. In winter, it is a place of retreat and comfort from the cold - a place to rest with family and friends after a day of skiing. In summer, it is more like a resort. The outdoor patio and pool areas seamlessly connect to living and dining, providing a setting for fun and festivities.

Aesthetically, this home presents a strong and permanent feature within the existing landscape. From a distance, its form is striking and self-assured. Heavy concrete walls embed themselves in the gently sloping terrain, taking cues from the simple construction of early central Otago farming buildings. An elegant corrugated metal roof gives the building its form, penetrated by two solid vertical chimneys at one end.

A heavy timber door signals the entry. Once inside, a framed view of Mt Maude is revealed. The entry is a special moment, and creates a hinge between the public and private domains of the house.  As one walks furthers inside, a new character of the home is revealed. Dark timber is used throughout the interior, alongside raw concrete, blasted stainless steel and high quality fabrics. All materials are natural and designed to improve with age. Impressive internal volumes are created around the living and dining areas, orientated toward the sun and views. It is a home designed to be a permanent anchor to family life. A place to seek refuge and shelter. A place to enrich life.