Picture perfect in Puketapu

When curious deer frequently wander within metres of the site, you quickly get used to working with an audience. That’s what Greg O’Leary discovered while building this Hawke’s Bay gem. “It felt like they were within touching distance,” he remembers. “It was such a peaceful, special spot.”

Homeowners Dustin and Lisa’s goal was to do that special spot justice by building an equally special home. “We were after a contemporary home, but one that will stand the test of time,” says Dustin. “We wanted something that would genuinely feel like part of the landscape.”

To create the illusion that the home was built into the land, not just on top of it, Greg and the O’Leary Homes team carried out extensive excavation work. “There was a six-metre height difference from the back of the house to the front,” Greg explains. “Digging out those levels was pretty labour-intensive, but it was also good fun.”

Making the most of the site’s breathtaking views was also top of the couple’s minds. Here, architect Simon Clarkson’s design more than met the brief, framing the landscape at every turn. Clever features – like a timber ceiling view shaft leading from the front door to a large window – also played a part, leading the eye towards the vista.

The home was designed for a growing family, with the owners’ baby girl born two weeks before the keys were handed over. “It was all a bit of a blur towards the end,” Dustin says, “but we’re very happy. We feel so privileged to live in such a beautiful place.”

Builder: O'Leary Homes Limited

Location: Puketapu | Hawke's Bay

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