In an established neighbourhood in Wānaka this new home presents a contemporary face to the street. Turning its back on the Central Otago vernacular of gables and schist, architect Barry Condon opted instead for a subtle composition of linearity and curves cloaked in a palette of earthen hues.
The lower part of the house, enclosing service areas, is clad in vertical cedar finished with Dryden WoodOil Charcoal, a deep brown tone that allows the form to recess and create the sense of a floating upper storey.
The main part of the house is set around a stepped plan, allowing each area to make the most of striking lake and mountain views to the north and west. The exterior is framed with a grey-toned aluminium, which is juxtaposed with timber soffits and detailing. Here, the cedar is finished with Dryden WoodOil Elm, a red-brown hue that provides a sharp contrast to the grey aluminium and a beautiful warm tactility.
While the dramatic views here are to the west and the north, there was a need to create a sheltered outdoor living area due to the exposed nature of the site and the prevailing wind. The architect has achieved this by carving an al fresco dining area from the eastern elevation, where guests can dine under a large timber-clad overhang also finished in Dryden WoodOil Elm.
The design decisions here have created a cohesive whole, each part of the house defined by material
and finish. Looking down over the home to the golden light on the mountains beyond, the Elm and Charcoal finishes perfectly echo the tones of the alpine backdrop.
Dryden WoodOil is made in New Zealand for New Zealand conditions, and is a preferred choice for natural timber protection, especially for projects such as this where materials need to stand up to climatic extremes. It is a water-repellent, non-filming oil that migrates deep into the timber helping prevent the absorption of water and reducing excessive warping, cupping and splitting, extending the lifespan of the timber.
