Natural wonder

Sian and Richard’s vision for their contemporary family home has come to life. “We wanted to build a home of architectural merit and character using predominantly natural materials,” says Sian. The couple sought to maximise views of the Kerikeri Inlet while creating a beautiful, energy-efficient haven. “We were also looking for a bespoke feel with attention to detail.”

The couple engaged architect Paul Spooner and builder David Crabb of Circle D Construction. David had built nearby and understood his new clients’ plans. “It was a good fit for both of us,” says David. “They knew what they wanted, and it was easy to work with them.”

However, starting the project wasn’t simple. Crabb and his team demolished an existing house and worked with engineers to secure the new build atop a steep bank.

Meticulously-crafted stonework adds character and strength to the home, inside and out. Other features – glass balustrades, high ceilings, and timber floors – provide clean, classic lines while contributing to a homely feel. “When you open the door, that’s the ‘wow’ factor,” says David.

His client was on site nearly every day and met regularly with David and his managers. “They paid incredible attention to detail and were endlessly patient, even when we had decision fatigue,” says Sian.

The home is wrapped in cedar and powder-coated aluminium cladding. A generous timber deck invites you to pause and drink in views of sparkling water. Sian is proud her home was recently commended in the ADNZ Design Awards 2020 and chosen for the NZ House & Garden magazine tour 2019. But its most important cheerleaders live inside the house. “It absolutely met our expectations. It’s difficult to think of anything that we would change.”

Location: Kerikeri | Northland

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