Material masterclass

This architectural home in the historic and exclusive suburb of Cashmere, Christchurch, blends modern aesthetics, natural materials, and thoughtful design to create an inner-city sanctuary that welcomes nature at every opportunity. 

With experience from building over 10 homes and expertise in interior design, the homeowners carefully considered every detail. They worked closely with architectural design studio RBA to refine the design before R&B Build director Brett Armstrong led the way in delivering a spacious and functional two-level home on a compact 450m² site. 

From the street, the contemporary home is a masterclass in materials. Three complementary styles of cladding were chosen for their low maintenance, durability, and organic form. ALPOLIC® composite metal panels in manganese metallic cover the main living area and upstairs bedroom, while the four-metre-high garage is clad in Cemintel Territory™ panels with line detailing that mimics precast concrete. Extensive discussions were held with the homeowners about the style and colour of brick cladding. The team was thrilled to source recycled brick from a demolition site that matched the homeowners’ vision, bringing a touch of local history into the contemporary design. 

The home’s grand entrance reveals a window overlooking an impressive water feature, a notable design element that bridges the space between the master wing and living areas, seamlessly connecting indoors and outdoors. “The water feature, visible from multiple angles, was key for the homeowners, adding serenity and energy to the home,” says Brett. 

With ribbed panelling on the curved island, and hand painted bronze cabinetry, the luxurious kitchen flows into the living areas where full length windows and sliders open onto the louvred outdoor deck. To futureproof the home for later years, the master bedroom is positioned downstairs and features an ensuite with a stone bath on a custom plinth, and direct access to the pool via a self-closing slider. 

Upstairs, two bedrooms, an ensuite, and a living area with low-profile windows capture views of heritage European ash trees. The bespoke staircase, with floating bamboo treads on structural steel, is a work of art. “Bamboo is a challenging hardwood and, as a central feature, the treads required perfect integration into the glass balustrade for a refined finish,” Brett explains. 

Brett was acutely aware of the need for his team and their subcontractors to deliver the high quality of build that R&B Build is known for. “Collaborating with the homeowners on every decision created a home that reflects their vision in minute detail.” 

“Of all our experiences building homes, this has been the most rewarding,” say the homeowners. “The R&B Build team ensured a seamless transition from concept to completion, listening to our needs and creating a home that is perfectly suited to our lifestyle.” 

Location: Cashmere | Christchurch

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