Water's edge

Designing a new home to sit right on the shoreline brings its own challenges, and this project was no exception.

The waterfront home, designed and built by Fowler Homes Nelson, replaces an older house that was long past its use-by date. Manager Lisa Stevenson says the new house needed to fit in with the landscape, and it had to sit mostly within the original footprint.

"It was not only essential to maximise the great views across to Rabbit Island, but also to provide extensive decking so the owners could relax outdoors. To this end, we created a central living volume that opens to decks on both sides. If an onshore breeze is blowing, the owners can use the sheltered deck at the rear, which is where we placed the swimming pool. With large glass sliders front and back, the owners can still enjoy the water views there is a sightline right through the house."

The cladding is also a design response to the location. Colorsteel corrugated iron in New Denim Blue wraps around the two bedroom wings on either side of the house the colour provides a visual link with the water. To contrast the iron, the central volume is clad in cedar wood, while Rockcote plaster in an off-white shade features at the rear.

As with every Fowler Homes project, the interior was designed for easy, relaxed living. The spacious open-plan living area incorporates a feature wall that resembles natural stone. A rustic timber beam serves as a mantelpiece.

Bright red accents also enliven the living space. One wall near the dining area, and an adjoining beam are finished with a textural red wallpaper. The flooring is feature-grade American oak, chosen for its knots and graining, which convey a subtle rustic look.

For details, contact Fowler Homes, 247 Queen St, Richmond, Nelson, phone (03) 544 5574. Alternatively, visit the website: www.fowlerhomes.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas