Modern Italian

Designing a house to meet the needs of three generations of family members doesn't have to involve compromise. As this project illustrates, with the right design, it's possible to provide a variety of living spaces that cater to all age groups.

This three-storey house, on the shores of Lake Rotorua, was designed by Don Nelson Architecture to maximise the sun and extensive views. Don Nelson says the owners wanted the house to reflect a modern Italian influence, rather than a more traditional Mediterranean look.

Other requirements included an easy indoor-outdoor flow, plenty of outdoor living and entertaining areas, a pool, and a separate grandparents' retreat.

The 400m² house, which appears to step up from the shoreline, is characterised by the company's signature curved elements. Curved, covered balconies extend the living areas outdoors, with the curves repeated in the shape of the pergolas. Steps leading to the pool are also curved.

"The pool is positioned halfway between the children's rooms on the ground floor, and the main living rooms on the first level," says Nelson. "This ensures both areas relate to the pool it is never more than half a flight of steps away."

Nelson introduced timber accents to complement the solid concrete exterior. These include louvred shutters, timber pergolas and timber eyebrow shutters that provide sun protection.

Soft curves are also a feature of the interior, which incorporates a grand, curved, three-storey staircase.

Don Nelson Architecture specialises in both new home and renovation design. The company undertakes design commissions throughout New Zealand, with recent projects covering Wellington, Hawkes Bay, the Bay of Plenty, Auckland and the Far North. The company is also working on projects in Queensland and Rarotonga.

For further details, contact Don Nelson Architecture, freephone 0800 Don Nelson (366 635). Email: don@donnelson.co.nz, or visit the website: donnelson.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas