Country chic

The face of rural New Zealand is changing. Just like their urban cousins, country houses are increasingly likely to reflect a contemporary design influence.

This house, designed by Mark Hale of SHA Architecture, a member of Architectural Designers New Zealand (ADNZ), highlights this new wave of architecture.

Designed to follow the contours of the gently sloping site, the house is built over five levels. The split levels add visual interest to both the interior and exterior.

The house is also characterised by its sense of solidity and substance a look that's enhanced by the Oamaru stone cladding, thick walls and columns.

"The proportions were important," says Hale. "Visually, the facade is rather heavy, but the large columns provide a solid vertical element that helps anchor the house to the ground. The composite aluminium panels balance the extensive use of stone."

The house was designed to maximise the country views and the northerly aspect. All the main rooms open to large terraces their design reminiscent of a Balinese resort hotel.

SHA Architecture, as with all ADNZ members, is a specialist in architectural design, construction and renovation. ADNZ members can initiate and complete a building project from conception through to final certification.

For further details, contact ADNZ, phone (03) 343 3080, fax (03) 343 3084. Website: www.adnz.org.nz.

To contact SHA Architecture, phone (07) 839 5622. Website: www.sha.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas