Situated 10km south of Queenstown in the tranquil enclave of Bob’s Cove, this bespoke Wakatipu Perspectives home draws inspiration from the clean, functional lines of an iconic farm shed. The simple L-shaped floor plan is elevated by a skewed ridge-line roof, creating dynamic angles that both respond to and reflect the dramatic natural environment. The dark steel cladding blends harmoniously with the surrounding bush, while the interior’s warm plywood finishes provide a sense of calm and connection to nature.

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Brief: Designed for a family of four with two professional parents and active children, the home needed to provide functional living spaces, separate guest accommodation for visiting family and friends, and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. It was essential for the design to maximise breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the dense bushland, while also capturing the limited winter sunlight.

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Challenges: The site’s steep backdrop contributed shading from high northern hills and geotechnical ground movement, presenting significant challenges. Advanced 3D CAD modelling was used to simulate the sun’s movement across all four seasons, ensuring optimal placement of windows and living spaces for natural light and warmth, and a floating foundation typology alleviated geotechnical concerns.  Budget constraints required a collaborative approach between architect and builder, resulting in a switch from concrete slab foundations to more cost-effective pile foundations, which also addressed the sloping site.

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Features: The house offers expansive glazing in the main living areas to frame stunning views of the lake and bush, as well as skylights strategically placed to capture the northern hillscapes. Guest accommodation is seamlessly integrated into the design, providing privacy and comfort for visitors. Despite its simplicity, the project achieves a high-end aesthetic, with refined architectural details and a careful balance of materials that enhance its rural setting.

Sustainability: The home was designed with energy efficiency in mind, featuring high levels of insulation, careful orientation for passive solar gain, and a warm, natural colour palette that complements the environment.