Contemporary clifftop house with stone cladding

Clifftop building sites are rare, but when they do become available, it's probably fair to say there's an expectation that the subsequent house will also be something out of the ordinary.

This was what happened with this project at Narrow Neck in Auckland. Architect Henry Lin of PTG Architecture was commissioned to design a contemporary classic house with a very modern interior.

"Robust, natural materials were the order of the day," Lin says. "The house is built from cedar and Hinuera stone, and has a copper roof. All these materials were chosen to stand the test of time in terms of style as well as durability. This is a house that will keep its looks for many years to come."

Lin says one of the main design challenges involved the change of levels on the site.

"The land has a slope, and the original house on the site was split over several levels. For this project, it was essential to create a single-level flow out from the family living area to the terrace and onto the lawn."

Consequently, the house steps down from the street, which provides space for terraced planter boxes. It also helps to minimise the perceived mass of the house. Deeply recessed windows and door openings, and large loggia columns create a layered effect, with the play of light and shadow adding further impact.

"This house was all about the fundamentals of architecture understanding the site to provide sheltered, light-filled living spaces that benefit from light breezes in summer, but avoid the strong winds off the sea," says Lin.

To this end, there are alfresco seating and dining areas on opposite sides of the house, and aluminium sliding shutter doors and opening roofs that maximise the natural light.

Story by: Trendsideas