Timber treat

Perched on the edge of Ashley Forest, this uniquely crafted home by David Morgan and his team at D.G.I. Morgan Limited offers a peaceful haven for its owners, blending simple design with bespoke craftsmanship as they embrace the empty nest phase of life. 

The complexity of the build stemmed from the ceiling height, intricate timber elements, and detailed structural work. “With our team of project managers, experienced carpenters, and a glazing and steel fabrication division, the homeowners felt confident we were the right crew to bring their custom design to life,” says David. 

The home’s entrance, defined by a covered dormer porch and two solid macrocarpa beams supporting a feature cross-truss, sets the tone for the workmanship inside. The exterior cladding combines the durability of European tray profile steel, wrapping the home from the roof apex down to the earth, with the warmth of ironbark timber sourced from recycled wharf piles. Innovative details, such as chain downpipes and a shingle-lined concrete culvert replacing traditional guttering, effortlessly blend form and function. 

The solid macrocarpa roof structure, exposed on the interior, was crafted from seven-metre length band-sawn logs, manufactured into scissor style trusses at the team’s Lyttelton workshop. “The trusses were connected with engineered steel plates and custom metal brackets, hidden in the joins for an unbroken finish, before being lowered into place on site,” says David. “When we checked the levels, the roof ridge was within a 2mm tolerance, an incredible achievement for a build of this complexity.” 

Inside, the timber theme continues, with eucalyptus flooring and solid timber handrails and balustrades. Large triangular windows, tracing the gabled roofline, frame forest views. Blonde birch ply ceilings provide a crisp contrast to the rich timber textures. The mezzanine level master suite, the only bedroom within the home, features false macrocarpa ceiling cords, adding intimacy without lowering the height. The gable windows here, offer glimpses of the ocean. 

The home’s design prioritises environmental considerations, using drilled piles and bearers above ground to minimise site impact, Homestar quality 200mm insulation, and energy efficient windows and doors to maximise heat retention. “This was a challenging build,” says David “but, by leveraging the wide-ranging skills of our 60-strong team, we maintained control and quality in every detail. I am incredibly proud of the high level of craftsmanship we have delivered.” 

Newly settled into the property, the homeowners say they are living the dream. “Our innovative yet humble home sits perfectly within its natural surroundings like it has always been here. We are savouring every moment in our cosy, light-filled sanctuary.”  

Location: Ashley | North Canterbury

See other Revere projects