Kiwi vernacular
Just as the landscape helps to define the homes we build, so too does a tried-and-true building system
When talk turns to the history of this country, sooner or later reference is made to the tyranny of distance. However, what served to keep many folk away for so long also produced an environment that is uniquely ours.
As we've matured as a country we have taken the best of what our forebears brought with them and adapted it to suit this environment. The result is an affinity with the land that expresses itself in the very homes we build.
A little over 60 years ago, design and build firm Lockwood was established, and since that time has grown to become one of the most recognised and trusted names in the business.
Today, the company offers some of the most dynamic and eco-friendly house designs available in the market, says Lockwood authorised builder Julie Batt of Lockwood Southern Lakes.
"As well as being conscious of the impact to the environment throughout the building process, Lockwood has always stayed abreast of current design trends."
"That was one of the aspects that attracted our client to the Lockwood brand the mix of sustainability and attention to design detail."
Working with the builders and the Lockwood designer, the homeowner chose the company's Gullwing plan, which was then modified to suit the site conditions and the client's needs.
"Although situated on a large rural Queenstown site, the building platform itself was actually quite small, to ensure minimal impact on the surroundings.
"The open-plan kitchen-dining-living area is in keeping with the original plan. What differs is that we've rotated the bedroom wings 90° and incorporated a lower-level garage," says the builder.
Externally, schist and cedar accents give the home an identifiably Otago feel, while a continuation of the schist inside reinforces the look, this time with the signature Lockwood pine palette.
Sleek, contemporary lines have been augmented with expansive glazing to create a modern family home with a direct connection to the landscape. Low-profile furnishings in a series of complementary tones and patterns, along with hard and soft landscaping, complete the look.
"This was a mammoth project 18 months in total," says the builder. "But we worked closely with the client every step of the way to give them the right result."
To contact Lockwood Southern Lakes, phone 0508 4 Lockwood (562 5963).
Story by: Trendsideas
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