To maximise the lake views, the large, open-plan living area is on the second storey. Sliding doors open up the space to a long balcony and a deck at one side. Sliding aluminium louvres in the colour Ironsand provide shelter from the wind.
There are also fixed louvre awnings that screen the sun and bring a human scale to the front elevation.
The Farmers chose a solid blonded wood interior. The knot-free wood enhances the streamlined, contemporary feel of the home. The sarking extends out to the eaves, reinforcing the indoor-outdoor connection. For a crisp look, some walls are painted Gib.
The kitchen was designed by Palazzo Kitchen & Appliances in Tauranga, a specialist in imported European kitchens, sinks, taps and appliances.
Branch manager Brian Stewart says the owners wanted a minimal, highly functional kitchen, with clean lines and European appliances.
"The design also needed to ensure the kitchen was an integral part of the overall living space," Stewart says.
Palazzo Kitchen used the latest European design software for the kitchen, which was then manufactured by Nobilia in Germany the firm has supplied top-quality German kitchens for 45 years.