From a distance

The higher you go, the better the view. But planning restrictions don't always make it easy to build a house that maximises the outlook.

Such was the case with this project. But even with an 8m height restriction, architectural designer Trevor Reitsma was able to ensure the owners could enjoy the view he designed a bunker-style, split-level house with a large rooftop terrace.

"With its flat slabs, the house is essentially a concrete sandwich with glass infills," he says. Using a concrete construction provided thin sections that enabled us to keep within the 8m height limit. It also created a flat roof that was ideal for a terrace."

The split-level design means there isn't a great number of stairs to climb between levels the rooftop terrace is easily reached by a short flight of stairs from the master bedroom level.

The terrace provides unobstructed ocean views through clear glass balustrading. Its large size means there is enough space for an outdoor kitchen and dining table as well as lounger chairs and all-weather squabs.

Marine-grade stainless steel kitchen cabinets line the side of the terrace. These incorporate a sink as well as built-in barbecue facilities. The sleek, streamlined finish of the cabinets complements the highly contemporary architecture.

"The exposed nature of the terrace means it is not suitable for year-round use," says Reitsma. "But it certainly comes into its own on days and evenings when it is not too hot."

The rooftop terrace is not the only outdoor living area on the property. There is also a covered dining and entertaining area off the main living room, next to a suspended swimming pool. In inclement weather, this outdoor room can be enclosed by glass sliders on two of the three exposed sides. An additional terrace off the master suite provides views across the pool to the sea beyond.

Story by: Trendsideas