Villa in the country

For centuries, the rich architectural heritage of Italy and Spain has influenced the design of homes throughout the world with good reason. The solid masonry construction and formal symmetry of these houses create a sense of permanence and security, and provide a welcome haven for the family.

This country villa is a prime example. Designed by Masonry Design Solutions and built by Nautica Homes, the house incorporates many elements of traditional Italian and Spanish architecture.

Masonry Design Solutions director Mark Wilson says the solid masonry construction creates thick walls and deep reveals, and also provides efficient thermal and acoustic insulation.

"To further enhance the authenticity of the design, we have avoided an expanse of glass," he says. "Much of the glazing is tall and narrow."

The formal symmetry of the front entrance, the parapet walls and the tile inlay above the front door are further European design influences.

"We have also incorporated heavy banding around the parapet and above the windows, which is typical of these villas," says Wilson. "Other features include clay detailing, such as the chimney pots, and Spanish clay tile roof."

Wilson says the 360m² house, on a 1.6ha rural property in Coatesville, has a sprawling design, with bedroom wings extending either side of a central family living area. This central space features a high ceiling and opens to a formally landscaped outdoor living area, complete withtraditional loggia.

"A seamless indoor-outdoor flow is an essential part of the New Zealand lifestyle," says Wilson.

For details, contact Masonry Design Solutions, PO Box 300-252, Albany, phone (09) 448 1101, mob 021 597 347. Or visit the company's website: www.themasonrygroup.co.nz.Although inspired by traditional architecture, the house was also designed to meet the needs of a modern family lifestyle.

Designer Mark Wilson of Masonry Design Solutions says the central family living space has a generously proportioned open-plan layout, which creates an easy flow between rooms.

"There are no doors in this area," he says. "Rooms are defined by the furniture placement and by structural columns with niches."

In keeping with the need to cater to a busy family, the kitchen has a more contemporary design, with an island providing a large work top and a casual seating area for friends and family.

"The house is designed for easy entertaining," says Wilson. "Large bifold doors open up the kitchen to the outdoors and the loggia beyond."

Two bedroom wings, on opposite sides of the living area, provide a master suite on one side, with children's rooms on the other.

"Providing that degree of separation helps make the space work well for the family," says Wilson.

For details, contact Masonry Design Solutions, PO Box 300-252, Albany, phone (09) 448 1101, mob 021 597 347. Or visit the company's website: www.themasonrygroup.co.nz.What goes on behind the scenes is just as important as the more visual aspects of a new home. To maintain the high standard of specification for the Coatesville house, a number of Gib Living Solutions® products were specified.

Gib Noiseline® plasterboard, a Gib Quiet Zone® solution, was used to provide acoustic insulation between the living and sleeping areas. This plasterboard has an extra-dense core, making it particularly effective at blocking out noise.

Ceilings throughout the house feature Gib Ultraline® for a smooth, easy-paint finish.

Bathrooms are lined with Gib Aqualine®, a Gib Dry Zone® solution. Gib Aqualine has a water resistant core containing wax polymers that help prevent moisture penetration and protect against damage to linings and framing caused by moisture or steam.

Other Gib plasterboards used in the house include a Gib Tough Zone® solution Gib Toughline®. Stronger than standard plasterboard, Gib Toughline has an extra dense core reinforced with fibreglass mesh. Gib Toughline lines the garage of this house.

For more information, visit the Gib website: www.gib.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas