Wanaka House
The house is situated on the outskirts of Wanaka. Views extend from the north east to the west across the subdivision to Wanaka in the distances and to the upper reaches of Lake Wanaka in the west.
The design provides a house that fits into the landscape and takes into account the nature of its suburban/semi-rural setting. To take advantage of this the house was oriented to look out across the vineyard but have framed views back across the lake.
A courtyard was located in the centre of the house. This allowed the house to have an active heart that would work in all weathers. The courtyard faces north towards the sun and views, with a glazed circulation area closing off the neighbours and hill behind to the south.
The orientation allows the building to provide sheltered areas around the house. A swimming pool is located on a higher level with good views from the kitchen and lounge for supervision of children using it. The guest bedroom is linked with the pool area and has expansive views across the pool to the vineyard and lake beyond.
Each element has been designed to look different and the core palette of materials being stone, zinc, plaster and glass.
This project received a New Zealand Institute of Architects National Design Award.
