On a clear day

Few features in your home give as much lasting pleasure as uninterrupted views of the landscape. In the case of these 12 apartments on the edge of Lake Taupo, 88 on the Lake, the architect has brought an iconic vista into the heart of each living space.

The main entrance is reached via a walkway over a pond and water feature a visual reminder of the lake only a few metres away.

Inside, the second floor of each apartment has been designated the living area, to give home-owners elevated views throughout the open-plan kitchen, living and dining area to the lake and mountains beyond. The view is revealed through floor-to-ceiling glazing across almost the entire width of the apartments, says Steve Temple of Temple Construction.

Bringing the outdoors in was only part of the architect's vision, says developer Tony Gledhill of Lake Terrace Holdings. The other aim was to combine natural materials with state-of-the-art technology and high-end specifications.

"We were looking for a classical, timeless feel that would be in tune with the lake," says Gledhill. "So rather than using plaster and paint for the exterior we've specified stonework and cedar, and we've chosen quality materials and fittings throughout the apartments."

In the kitchens, a natural aesthetic created by black granite benchtops and solid bamboo floors is complemented by the latest appliances from Bosch and De Longi.

The apartments are air conditioned, to provide warmth or cooling as needed, with underfloor heating in the bathrooms and a gas fire in the living area that can be controlled remotely.

Skylights bring extra natural light into the top of the complex; electronic sensors close them automatically when it starts to rain. Recessed lights and halogen spotlights provide additional task and ambient lighting.

Making sure the apartments were quiet was another key requirement.

"We wanted to create the quietest possible environment so that homeowners could enjoy their views in peace and quiet," says Temple. "We've included extensive acoustic treatments, with specialty products under the tiles and walls, and tinted double glazing."

The tinted glass windows also allow owners to look out but stop others looking in, and provide almost total UV protection.

At the rear of the apartments is a 22.5moutdoor lap pool, a gym and sauna. Large trees, mainly magnolias, have been planted to provide shade and visual interest around the pool.

The apartments have either three or four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The complex has an underground carpark and electronic camera system and is near cafes, restaurants and shops.

For more information, contact Lake Terrace Holdings. Email: laketerrace@ihug.co.nz or visit the website: www.88laketaupo.co.nz. Temple Construction NZ Ltd, phone (07) 378 9840. Email: qs.temple@xtra.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas