Coastal attraction

Good architecture is always a response to the surrounding landscape. For this new house overlooking a coastal river, the location was a strong design influence.

The Boathouse, the new Millwater, Silverdale show home from the renowned Auckland building company, Jalcon Homes, takes its cue from the spectacular coastal location. Architectural designer Ashby Baker created a symmetrical facade reminiscent of traditional boatsheds in form and materials. The distinctive shiplap exterior is clad in blonded cedar, with the soaring gables grounded at the base by bagged and painted brickwork.

Jalcon Homes sales and marketing manager Ingrid van Leeuwen says the company has also pushed the boat out in other ways with this home.

"Our last show home was on a small city site. It demonstrated that good design does not need to be compromised with a small plot or infill site. This house, however, is on a large block of land, so we have designed a similarly large house of 335m², to maximize the great water views."

The sense of drama begins at the oversized front door, which opens to a light-filled, double-height entry hall.

A blonded oak floor with wide planks continues the boathouse reference, and provides a seamless backdrop to the spacious open-plan living area. With large sliding doors opening to a sheltered deck, the living area is extended to the outdoors.

"A louvred roof above the patio, and a gas fireplace in a stand-alone chimney ensure this seating area can be enjoyed through all seasons," says van Leeuwen.

In keeping with modern lifestyles, the galley-style kitchen forms the hub of the home it opens directly onto the patio and is part of the overall living space.

Other key features include a media room, and a casual lounge on the first floor, which is a relaxing retreat which overlooks the floor below. The house also has four bedrooms, including a spacious guest suite, three bathrooms and a powder room.

Sustainable design features have been incorporated. The home's passive design maximises solar gain in winter, and there is double glazing, in-slab heating and a heat pump.

Van Leeuwen says every Jalcon Homes home is custom designed to suit the site and each client's budget and design requirements. But although no two houses are the same, every homeowner is assured of the same high quality and extra attention to detail.

"Each project is a team effort, with every aspect co-ordinated by Jalcon Homes from the site selection and design to the construction and interior design by our own in-house team, Duo Design. We provide a full interior design service, and it is these finishing touches that really make a house a home."

A family-owned firm, Jalcon Homes has been in business for nearly 20 years. The company is also a Registered Master Builder. This means every house comes with a 10-year Master Build guarantee. For added peace of mind, the company provides a fixed-price contract and an all-important 15-year weathertight warranty.

For further information, contact Jalcon Homes, phone 0800 525 266. Alternatively, email: sales@jalcon.co.nz. Or visit www.jalcon.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas