Passive living precision

Tucked within an established Lake Wānaka subdivision, this new Passive House blends minimalist design with cutting-edge technology. Built by local experts MA Building Wānaka, the 140m² home, with an adjoining 60m² garage and guest apartment above, offers a comfortable and energy-efficient retreat for its newly retired owners. 

The home’s sleek exterior, with ebony wide tray steel cladding and contrasting timber, is enhanced by its Passive House technology. “Performance housing is my passion, and the goal was to maintain a comfortable climate year round in Otago’s fluctuating temperatures,” says Mark. 

Larch joinery with an aluminium skin protects the home from the elements, while 300kg triple glazed sliders, craned into place, capture the sun’s warmth. Reduced framing, and insulation, New Zealand-made from 70 percent sheep’s wool, minimises thermal bridging. The ‘lungs’ of the home are the German designed ventilation system, providing optimum air quality through an optimised cross-flow heat exchanger. 

Inside, the home exudes understated elegance, with natural materials, texture and timber adding visual interest. The kitchen’s concrete island and stone benchtop pair beautifully with oak cabinetry and flooring. MA Building Wānaka’s craftsmanship shines in the ceiling-height pivot doors, clad in Tasmanian oak shiplap, concealing an office nook and entry storage. “We custom designed frames and meticulously laid out the 75mm battens, cutting and glueing each mitred edge for a flawless finish,” says Mark. 

The MA Building Wānaka team has created a home that harmonises performance and design, resulting in a welcoming space where every surface feels warm to the touch. The homeowners say the result is better than they could have imagined. “Mark’s exceptional communication and project management skills gave us complete peace of mind while living overseas. It is a delightful home to live in.” 

Location: Wanaka | Otago

See other Revere projects