European-style country house, multi-gabled roof, landscaped pool area, open-plan living

Entertaining is a real pleasure when you have all the prerequisites a spacious, inviting home that opens out to a large alfresco living area complete with pool, entertainment pavilion and lush, subtropical landscaping.

This family home, which was designed by Don Nelson Architecture, is exactly such an entertainers' paradise. Although the architecture reflects a strong European influence, the interior has a very contemporary open-plan layout that lends itself to formal and informal entertaining.

Tall columns help to define the various sitting and dining areas on the main floor, and all of these rooms have large bifolds that open right up to the outdoors. Not surprisingly, the home has been designed to maximise the country views and the warmth from the sun in winter.

The design also caters to the needs of the whole family, providing a separate parents' retreat, with the master bedroom opening out to an intimate balcony. There is a formal living room for the adults as well, and self-contained guest quarters.

Children can enjoy a large space to themselves, with a dedicated children's wing with its own central living area.

High ceilings, polished concrete floors, and warm timbers are other key features.

To contact Don Nelson Architecture, phone (09) 486 4698, mobile 027 496 7450. Email: don@donnelson.co.nz. Or visit the website: www.donnelson.co.nz

Story by: Trendsideas