In character

New Zealand's architectural heritage remains a strong design influence, particularly for country homesteads. But the gabled roofs and large verandas of our traditional villas have been given a modern interpretation for this new show home in Dairy Flat.

Designed by Mark Wilson of Masonry Design Solutions and built by Nautica Homes, the solid masonry house mixes the best of both worlds. The lime-washed walls, steep-pitched roof and lintels milled from lamp posts provide a traditional character that fits with the rural setting. But the interior layout and flow provide for contemporary living. The design includes a central pavilion that opens to landscaped outdoor living areas.

Masonry Design Solutions director, Mark Wilson says the modern convenience extends to the thick-walled Firth HotBloc construction. This provides thermal and acoustic insulation, which helps make it a particularly energy-efficient house.

Wilson says the show home is a joint venture between Masonry Design Solutions and boutique building company Nautica Homes.

"This company specialises in the construction of distinctive masonry homes, and has the experience and skills needed for such projects."

The country character that defines the house exterior is also a feature of the interior. But the heavier elements, such as the macrocarpa beams and trusses, are balanced by more refined surfaces that add a degree of sophistication.

Designer Mark Wilson says the interior is geared for contemporary lifestyles and entertaining, with the kitchen and family living areas flowing out to a large cabana and swimming pool. This alfresco entertaining area incorporates an outdoor fireplace and barbecue facilities.

"To create a good indoor-outdoor flow, we have introduced extra-wide door openings and used similar materials to provide continuity," says Wilson. The Peter Fell coloured concrete of the patio is repeated in the entrance. And the macrocarpa trusses in the cabana echo a theme from inside."

Wide openings also link the family rooms. A large, barn-like door on steel rollers can be used to separate the formal and informal living areas. The door features planks of macrocarpa a timber that surrounds the fireplace in the family room.

"The thickness of the macrocarpa beams and posts complements the chunky look of the masonry construction," says Wilson.

Other surfaces in keeping with this look include the jarrah flooring in the kitchen and family room, which was milled from railway sleepers.

Wilson says the project is an effective collaboration between Nautica Homes and Masonry Design Solutions. The attention to detail from both parties ensured a high standard of finish.

For details, contact Masonry Design Solutions, PO Box 300-252, Albany, phone (09) 448 1101, mob 021 597 347. Or contact Nautica Homes, PO Box 303-430, North Harbour, Auckland, phone (09) 415 3200. Websites: www.themasonrygroup.co.nz and www.nautica.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas