RIVERSLEA HOME

Wānaka

Finalist - Best Design Awards 2024

This project, a family home for five, is envisioned as a forever home, balancing both current needs and future possibilities. The clients emphasised the need for individual spaces for everyone, maximising the breathtaking northern views across Lake Wānaka, and creating special settings throughout the home.

Situated on a flat, north-exposed site with stunning 180-degree views, this home offers a visual feast from east to west. The elevated location on the edge of a terrace provides vistas of Mt Maude, Mt Gold, Dublin Bay, and Grandview Range. These natural landmarks play a crucial role in the home’s orientation and design, ensuring each room captures the sun and the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

Freestanding concrete walls have been used externally to provide privacy as well as wind protection. A morning courtyard has been incorporated, along with an inviting entry area and expansive outdoor living with a pool, barbecue and outdoor fire. Strategically placed windows highlight interior features and the landscape beyond. Waking up in the main bedroom with the views in the background and the pool in the foreground is one of the highlights for the client. 

The home is also designed for hosting large family gatherings and entertaining, accommodating the frequent presence of the children’s friends. Also, the design integrates spaces for the client’s cherished collection of art, furniture and fittings. 

The exterior, built by Bagley Construction, features simple pavilion forms, that fit seamlessly into the Wānaka vernacular. Gezellig Interiors crafted the interior, emphasising elegant simplicity enriched with warm textures and materials. Key features include an entertaining bar area, a cosy living nook for the kids, and window seats perfect for sleepovers with friends. It’s a space that feels both personalised and inviting. 

Overall, the design ethos focused on simplicity articulated with complexity, ensuring the home is both elegant and functional.