Sunrise Bay House

Located within an established lakeside community, this holiday home is imbued with a sense of calm and tranquility. The building nestles within its neighborhood context, giving its occupants an impression of seclusion that encapsulates the uninterrupted vista of Lake Wanaka and Mt Gold beyond.

The lineal site response is crisp and concise; amidst the close proximity of neighbouring dwellings, the design was conceived as a series of gabled forms that slide in and out of each other. These simple forms are further articulated to create individualised spaces and retreats without losing the overall function and openness of the house. Boxed utilitarian pods are inserted within the spaces, allowing views and light to flow the entire length of the gabled forms.

A strong composition of earthy toned cedar cladding and tray roofing creates the synergy to the outer shell of the gable form. The white painted underbelly of soffits and walls further strengthen the individuality of the forms. Through a cohesive use of materials the internal journey replicates the external context and the full height glazing to the lake frontage engages the inhabitant with the natural environment.

The internal courtyard with direct visual aspect to surrounding mountains and lake vista creates a space to retreat from the elements and acts as an overflow when the owner is entertaining guests. Considered selection and bespoke furniture further enhances the overall design aesthetic.

This project represents not only an exploration of form and function within its environmental context but also the client's own journey of architecture and the enhanced enjoyment this has delivered.