Trends New Zealand Volume 34 No 5 | Page 17

nature, as well – thanks to the lush vertical gardens on the hallway walls and further scented plantings on the rooftop. Then there’s a fourth sense – touch. Board-formed concrete walls reflecting the texture of forest trees, the use of natural stone in ponds, and an exposed rock feature in the garage are just some tactile elements. The house has features that go beyond the sensory, too. The foyer has a dramatic glass ceiling – the floor of the home office directly above – creating the feel of an airy, double height volume as you enter. And while the home is south-facing, the interiors are light-filled and sunny. “The architecture utilises axial view shafts to create a permeable building, overcoming the limited access to northern sunlight,” says the architect. “Glass walls around the lift and stairwell create a light- well penetrating all four levels.” While the home looks made for a warm climate with a facade that’s 70 per cent glass, the windows and doors are triple- glazed and argon gas filled. Winter or summer, the home is always comfortable. Facing page top: Near invisible glass walls separate the kitchen and wine cellar from the stairwell, which also acts as the home’s lightwell. Facing page lower: Sculptural pendants over the dining table reflect the sprawling living zone. The powder room door to the left has no handle, a minimalist touch seen right through the home. Instead, doors are push-to-open, with only tiny occupancy indicators on show. Above: Ceiling strip lights are used in several areas of the home – while they are white in this living area, some can change colour to vary the ambience. search | save | share at