Photographer: Andrew Urquhart
A Seamless Extension to a Lakeside Home
This project transformed a 1970s Oamaru Stone home into a lakeside residence that fully connects to the surrounding views while retaining the character of the original building. Existing inward-looking rooms were repurposed for bedrooms, a media room, study, and service spaces, while a new extensively glazed pavilion was added on the lake side to open living areas to uninterrupted vistas of Lake Wānaka and the mountains.
Design themes explored contrasts of open and enclosed, day and night, summer and winter, and formal and informal. Each internal space connects to its own external court, allowing occupants to follow the sun, avoid wind, or seek privacy. Adjustable cedar shutters provide sun protection and privacy, while vaulting and high ceilings ensure generous volume and maintain framed mountain views.
Oamaru stone links the old and new, appearing both externally and internally, including in chimneys and landscape elements. Different finishes highlight the material’s texture, unifying the home while celebrating its natural character. The result is a home that blends existing heritage with modern, open living, and a strong connection to its lakeside setting.
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