Valley Crescent House

Located on an elevated site with views towards Black Peak, Treble Cone, and the dusky blue waters of Lake Wanaka, Valley Crescent House is oriented to allow full appreciation of the natural wonders of the area.

The house is made up of three gabled pavilions spread across the site and looking towards the western view, with living spaces in the centre. The lofty ceilings accentuate the mountainous views and give a sense of spaciousness to this central, open-plan room.

The outer wings contain bedrooms which take in their own angles on the wide view, while a study nook and bathrooms are included in the lower-profile linkages, lending a sense of cosiness to these private spaces. These connecting areas also create sheltered outdoor courtyards that can be accessed from the living and kitchen pavilion, for outdoor living in any weather. One whole corner of the living room can be opened so you can easily move indoors and out. We made made a sheltered courtyard, tucked in between the master bedroom and the living room, with an outdoor fireplace.

The material palette helps to merge the home with its landscape, with schist playing a big part both in the external cladding and in the interiors, where it is used for accent walls. Rusticated Corten steel lends character throughout the home. Warm, rich cedar is used for the ceilings and for the external cladding, where it contrasts well with the schist and areas of Euro Tray steel.