Previous pages: Clad in gracefully aging cedar, this
home by Dalman Architecture is situated on top of
a hill to optimise lake and mountains views. The
layout is configured so that the full extent of the
generous-sized house – and the landscape – is not
fully appreciated until you enter the home. The
natural landscape has been allowed to advance
up to the edge of the residence, so the house
integrates seamlessly into its environment.
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It’s not uncommon for an internal blade
wall or even a turn in an entry hall to
delay the reveal of a home’s layout and
views. This contemporary design takes
that concept a giant step further with the
entire house keeping you in suspense.
Designed by architects Richard Dalman
and Erica Brouard the five-bedroom
family home sits on top of a rolling hill.
This rather exposed site offers expansive
views toward the Southern Alps, Lake
Ellesmere and surrounding farmland.
“The residence is configured to reveal
itself on approach – disguising the overall
size from first view,” says Dalman. “It has
been assembled as three main structures –
each one containing different functions.”
These forms are positioned one behind
the other, surrounding the head of the hill.
Each element or wing is revealed in turn
as you approach up the long driveway. All
three wings are linked by a central gal-
lery space which hides the views beyond.
These are not seen until family or guests
enter through the flush front door.
“Intimate connections to the outlooks