Sarah Scott Architects Ltd

Completed in the winter of 2009, the Wanaka based firm, Sarah Scott Architects has come up with an innovative form which sits on an elevated section on the eastern shores of Lake Wanaka. With unrivalled views over the Wanaka township, the lake and the surrounding Southern Alps, the site is the sort that New Zealand tourism brochures are made of.

In response to the client’s brief, which called for a warm and inviting holiday home for family and friends, the form responds to local sun and weather patterns and the clients’ desire to capitalise on the surrounding mountain views.

The plan bends and twists to capture the best orientation for views of the surrounding landscape and uses these shifts in alignment to define the primary living, master bedroom and bedroom wings. These demarcations were one of the owner’s requirements, having a master bedroom, which was separate from the guest bedroom wing to ensure privacy even when large groups are to be accommodated at the house.

The living space protects the back courtyard from the prevailing north westerly winds whilst still affording expansive views through to the surrounding mountains and lake. During the summer the living pavilion can be opened up on both sides by way of large Tasmanian Oak sliding doors. The cantilevered study offers a dramatic first impression, its overhanging form providing a boat shelter below.

Internally the curved plywood acoustic ceiling which interlocks around steel posts draws the eye upwards and outwards towards the mountains. The curved form that is a common theme throughout the house allows the shifts in axes to occur without the sharp uncomfortable junctions.

The natural materials combined with the smooth flowing form produce a house that makes the most of the stunning setting, whilst captivating the senses as one moves throughout the home.