Rocky ridge
Situated on a rocky ridge in the town of Te Anau, this home set out to be an expansion of the landscape that surrounds it. Composed of undulating blocks that alternate in contrasting materials, this home’s ridge like form and simple material palette that mimics the rock and native ground cover of the area sits comfortably within the dramatic setting. Large areas of glazing are positioned to maximise views without compromising the thermal performance of the home.
Q How did this project come about?
A (Mitchell) We had recently completed a bach with Melissa and Mike, and they were experiencing the benefits of a well designed, warm and comfortable home. Their old and cold home in Te Anau was no longer up to scratch, so we received a call.
Q Being the second home completed together, what was the process like this time around?
A (Melissa and Mike) We have developed a strong rapport with Mitchell and the Fabric team, so this made the second project together seamless from start to finish. Although we are in different parts of the country, effective communication, trust, and collaboration ensured everyone involved was on the same page and working towards the same goal.
Q What is the thinking behind the design of this home?
A (Mitchell) In addition to high thermal performance, we believe that fostering a connection between homeowners and their surrounding environment can greatly enhance the comfort and enjoyment of their home. For Melissa and Mike’s home, that meant emulating the landscape - in particular the rocky ridge the home sits on and the native plants that surround it. Furthermore, they have lived in the area for a long time, so we felt their home should feel deeply familiar despite being brand new.
Q How does that come to life?
A (Mitchell) Using undulating blocks that alternate in materials, their home’s ridge like form sits comfortably in its landscape. Drawing on the rock and native ground cover of the area, the contrasting soft timber and robust steel claddings accentuate the home's form, providing a more easily understood silhouette from afar and visual interest up close.
The addition of concrete is a subtle nod to the long standing and often seen agricultural buildings of the area. Its application on the exterior is raw and rural, while inside it has a more refined feel thanks to minimalist detailing and meticulous craftsmanship.
(Melissa and Mike) We have had numerous comments regarding the materials used, and how the design complements the natural integrity of the landscape. It also has a high level of attention to detail throughout - the more you look, the more you see!
Q What are some other key features, in particular those that help this home perform in the extreme climate?
A (Mitchell) The main living space and bedroom suite are located around a central wood fire; with slats between the living and bedroom allowing for easy communication and an even temperature between rooms. Large areas of glazing are positioned throughout for views without compromising the thermal performance of the home. Overheating from the west is managed by a narrow cross section allowing for efficient cross ventilation, and operable high windows for stack venting. Thermal modelling ensures the correct amount of passive solar gain, thermal mass, and passive ventilation for cooling.
Interior comfort is further guaranteed with high performance detailing and specification, including a solar powered, in floor, hydronic heating system; with the fully insulated concrete floor ensuring this runs efficiently. The solar system also powers the house, and its use equates to a saving of over one tonne of emitted carbon every month.
Q How does the final result compare with your initial expectations?
A (Melissa and Mike) It is exactly how we envisaged it. Mitchell presented a hand drawing during one of our first meetings, and the finished house closely resembles this. In the next stage, the 3D model proved to be incredibly helpful in providing a clear visualisation.
(Mitchell) Being in such an incredible location, I found the first site visit very inspiring. Site lines both in and out of the home, and opportunities to create a comfortable and healthy home further directed that initial hand drawn concept.
Careful terraforming and renaturalisation was undertaken to ensure this home and its surrounding structures formed part of the landscape, however Melissa and Mike’s hard work in landscaping and planting has taken this next level.
(Melissa and Mike) We are looking forward to project #3!
Recognition
ADNZ New Home between 150m² and 300m² National Finalist
ADNZ Home Interiors Regional Highly Commended