Embracing the lake

Designed by Garry Mayne, Chilton + Mayne Architecture

From the building designer:

Project description and brief

Located along the tranquil canals of Lake Hood, this retirement home was designed as a serene retreat for owners relocating from Auckland’s CBD to be closer to family. 

The brief called for a residence that would be both a peaceful sanctuary and an inviting space for family gatherings, particularly visits from grandchildren. 

Seamless connection with natural surroundings

The design focused on creating a seamless connection with the natural surroundings, allowing the beauty of the canals and mountain vistas to be central to daily life.

Primary living areas were strategically positioned to offer unobstructed views of the water and expansive landscape, establishing a dynamic yet calming atmosphere throughout the home.

Design features and creative solution

Drawing inspiration from the traditional boathouse, the architecture presents a modern reinterpretation that blends functionality and aesthetics. 

The home’s form is broken into smaller gabled sections, evoking the character of a boathouse while ensuring privacy. 

These forms are arranged to engage with the lakeside environment, creating an interactive experience between the interior and nature.

The layout capitalises on the lakeside location and prevailing easterly winds by positioning the house in a series of pavilions, creating sheltered outdoor terraces and courtyards for year-round enjoyment.

Minimalist facade preserves privacy

From the street, the home presents a minimalist façade with limited openings, preserving privacy from the road and neighbouring properties. 

A stone wall at the entrance grounds the structure, and an understated front door leads to expansive views of the lake and mountains.

Inside, the home is flooded with natural light through pitched ceilings and large north- and west-facing glazing, framing stunning views of the surrounding canals and mountains. 

Interiors complement natural setting

The interior design complements the home’s connection to nature, using a warm, calming colour palette and natural timber finishes to create a welcoming atmosphere. 

The simplicity of form and materiality ensures both comfort and elegance, making the space ideal for both intimate retreats and family gatherings.

The home strikes a balance between modern aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. 

It integrates the views, protection from prevailing winds, and privacy considerations, creating a tranquil yet dynamic space. 

Sustainability

Sustainability was a central focus in the design, ensuring the home meets the energy needs of the owners while minimising environmental impact. 

Passive solar design principles were incorporated to optimise natural heating and cooling. 

The use of 140mm-thick external wall frames, thermally broken window and door joinery, and high-performance glazing creates a highly insulated thermal envelope, enhancing energy efficiency and reducing consumption.

Thoughtful placement of windows

Thoughtful placement of windows, roof overhangs, and sun angles ensures the home captures solar energy in winter while protecting from excessive heat in summer. 

Large sliding doors and strategically placed windows promote cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems for cooling.

To further enhance energy efficiency, north-facing solar panels were installed to offset running costs and reduce grid dependency. 

Locally sourced, low-maintenance materials, such as Metalcraft tray cladding, were chosen for their durability and minimal carbon footprint. 

By sourcing materials locally, transportation emissions were reduced, aligning with the project’s sustainable goals. 

Locally sourced timbers and natural stone soften the home’s exterior, blending it harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.

Story by: Trendsideas