At one with the scenery

Designed by Steven Painter, Landmark Homes Taupo

From the home builder:

When designing this showhome, our goal was to create a space that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding natural bush landscape while creating a functional, open-plan layout that reflects modern architectural elegance.

Key requirements:

• a bespoke home with a point of difference
• navigate height restrictions
• south-facing; maximise natural light
• multiple outdoor living areas
• affordable and adaptable design which can be replicated for clients

Nestled beside the lush native bush which bounds the shores of Lake Taupō, the site inspired us from our first visit, particularly the enchanting song of Tūī birds and overlapping of the water's edge. 

This led us to envision a functional and private retreat, deeply connected to nature. 

The floorplan captures sunlight and frames picturesque vistas, enhancing the living experience and maximising comfort and functionality throughout the home.

The site's unique position, being at the lowest point of the subdivision with a gentle slope, along with low height restrictions, presented challenges. 

Our design responds to these factors, steering away from traditional styles in favour of a sleek, contemporary approach that integrates seamlessly with the landscape. 

From every angle and hour of the day, the home reveals an ever-changing display of light, shadow, and form, offering a captivating experience throughout the day.

Striking a balance between openness to the outdoors and privacy – especially in the living and master bedroom wing was essential. 

We achieved this by designing the home in a U-shape, creating a series of courtyard spaces that connect seamlessly with a central open-plan living area and external atrium. 

This configuration fosters a profound connection to the surrounding landscape while maintaining an intimate, retreat-like atmosphere.

From the roadside, the home appears as a private retreat, with no direct views into the interior or outdoor living areas, ensuring seclusion. 

A sunken boardwalk guides visitors toward the heart of the home, the central atrium, an intimate space that establishes a welcoming atmosphere.

Upon entering, an expansive living, dining, and kitchen area unfolds, serving as the social hub of the home. 

Large sliding doors open to three distinct outdoor living areas, enabling seamless indoor-outdoor flow regardless of sun or wind direction. 

This thoughtful design blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior, creating a harmonious living experience.

The layout includes two wings that extend from the main living area, shaping the design and providing access to the private outdoor courtyards. 

Spanning 242m², the home features a secluded master wing, plus another wing which hosts remaining bedrooms, bathroom, a powder room.

The exterior is clad in a distinctive board-and-batten system, featuring four different profiles of batten that vary in width and depth. 

Installed in an irregular pattern, these battens create a dynamic visual effect, where sunlight and shadow interact uniquely with each surface. 

The colour palette harmonises with the surrounding bush, while Lunawood timber enhances the cladding and soffits, evoking the texture of tree bark and branches.

As our showhome in Kinloch, this design serves as a testament to our dedication to blending innovative architecture. 

Story by: Trendsideas