Natural setting

With the advantage of spectacular views over the mountains and lake, large windows were clearly integral to the design of this new home.

Architect Preston Stevens designed a living pavilion in the centre of the home to maximise views and sun. At one end, sliding doors open onto a balcony overlooking the lake while at the other end and on one side, bifolding doors off the living areas connect to terraces. On balmy days, the whole space can be opened up.

For environmental control, a freestanding block wall creating a partial screen between the sitting room and kitchen area and another behind the masonry fireplace act as passive thermal mass storage devices, moderating the temperature in the open-plan space.

As the owners like to cook and entertain, the kitchen and living functions had to flow.

"With its simple, social island design, the kitchen looks like a piece of furniture. It is carefully and deliberately laid out to meet the owners' brief, and can be closed down to conceal the functions of the kitchen," says Stevens.

"One owner wanted to have breakfast at the breakfast bar, while enjoying the view of the mountains and lake."

Story by: Mary Webb