Simple form, balanced proportions, clean lines

Designed by Karsten Architectural Design

From the designer:

Project Description

This four-bed family home is built on a steep section high above the Nelson Haven. The house makes the most of the spectacular views to the north, south and west and creates a fantastic living environment for a young family.

A level platform was excavated to create a flat lawn area off the front of the house. The siting of the house was a balancing act to avoid large expensive earthworks and allow access from the house to a lawn.

Timber pole retaining walls at the front and rear create a level platform and are low enough to avoid handrails.

Outdoor living areas are accessible on both sides of the house.

Design Features and Creative Solutions

The house was designed in a long low form so as not to stand out on the hill and also to maximise the views. The cedar has been stained with an ash colour stain which is subtle and a practical colour and blends well with the surrounding vegetation.

The real feature of the house is the simple form, proportions and clean lines.

The lawn is set below the floor of the house to avoid a handrail on the deck and lawn. The deck bearers are set back allowing the deck to cantilever.

This solar passive house has polished concrete floors that create thermal mass and provide a practical and cost-effective surface. Walls and roof are over-insulated, joinery is low 'E' and thermally broken. The bedrooms have thick thermal curtains to maintain heat at night. The house uses very little electricity.

The oak kitchen is stunning and the simple details of the interior mimic the architecture of the exterior.

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Chocolate Dog Studio