A grounded steel-framed entry is flanked by rammed earth walls and a very discreet garage door.  This entry, complete with a concrete folded seat, flows into textured and light filled connecting spaces.  The three separate buildings are oriented to pick up ridgeline views, with high-level windows framing mountain views.  These building forms define living zones, as do the well-considered circulation areas that announce you are moving into another space.  Every space connects to the landscape of vast mountains and thoughtfully created sheltered courtyards.

LOCATION

Cardrona Valley Road, Wanaka, Queenstown Lakes District, NZ

AWARDS

NZIA Southern Architecture Award for Housing 2015

FINALIST: TERRA AWARD First International Prize for Earthern Architecture

FINALIST: HOME NZ Home of the Year 2015

PUBLISHED

HOME NZ April/ May 2015

HOUSES Magazine Edition 49, Spring 2018

Eco Home by Melinda Williams, published by Penguin Random House, 2018

CONTRIBUTORS

Assembly Architects team: Justin Wright Architect, Louise Wright Architect

Main Contractor: Wavish Construction

Rammed Earth Contractor: Down to Earth Construction

Photography: Simon Devitt