Waterfront magic

There is nothing to rival New Zealand's idyllic coastline. And it's fair to say our unique climate demands a similarly unique approach to the design of a new home.

For this beachfront property, designer Mark Wilson of Masonry Design Solutions created a contemporary two-storey house with a spacious, open-plan interior and an easy indoor-outdoor flow. Expansive floor-to-ceiling glazing and glass balustrades on the cantilevered balconies ensure the view is maximised from every quarter.

The New Zealand influence is also evident in the natural schist columns, which offer a distinctive textural contrast to the smooth, plastered exterior.

Firth Hotblocs provide solid, thick walls and insulate against temperature extremes, as do the concrete floor slabs.

"The masonry construction provides a comfortable living environment all year round," says Wilson. "It contributes to lower humidity levels, and as the house is cool in summer and warm in winter, there are considerable energy savings."

For details, contact Masonry Design Solutions, PO Box 305-242, Triton Plaza, Albany, phone (09) 448 1101, mobile 021 597 347. Or visit the website: www.themasonrygroup.co.nz.

A roaring fire provides an ideal way to escape the winter storms it also fulfils an important social role as friends and family gather around the hearth. For this project, the designer specified two gas fireplaces from the Real Fires Minimal range.

The family living room is fitted with a 1200mm stainless steel Minimal fire, while the formal lounge features this model in black. Each fire comes with electronic controls, including a remote control.

For more information, contact Real Fires, PO Box 100-744, North Shore Mail Centre, Auckland 1030, phone (09) 444 7331, fax (09) 444 7335. Or visit the website: www.realfires.co.nz.

Both the material and colour palettes in the kitchen reference the beach setting. Manufactured by Fyfe Kitchens, the kitchen incorporates cabinetry in dark neutral sand tones. The cabinetry, which was colour matched to walls in the formal lounge, has a pearlescent finish.

An island-style peninsula features a Moonstone granite benchtop, reminiscent of tidal patterns on sand. The top extends to a waterfall side.

The kitchen was also designed to maximise the view. Consequently, both the cooking centre and sink are positioned on the peninsula facing the beach. To provide task lighting and ventilation, Fyfe Kitchens provided a suspended stainless steel canopy, which has the same sleek, square-edged lines as the cabinetry.

Designed for easy entertaining, the kitchen has a separate drinks centre at one side, complete with wine fridge and ample storage for glasses. There is also a large scullery, which has additional refrigeration, a sink, pantry storage and bench space.

Other features include an integrated coffee machine and illuminated glass shelving.

For more details, contact Fyfe Kitchens, 225 Great South Rd, Greenlane, phone (09) 520 4752, fax (09) 520 4751. Website: www.fyfekitchens.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas