8 Light Houses – capturing the New Zealand sun

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17 March 2020

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9 min read

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Discover how eight light-filled houses capture New Zealand’s strong sunlight to incredible visual effect, as well as minimising energy costs and helping to create a healthy home.
Northland Lake House by RB Studio features a 'hovering' roof punctured with square light wells diffused by honey-coloured translucent onyx stone slabs that provide a glowing ambient light at night.
At Vineyard House, shadows from the overhead louvres stripe the timber wall of the outdoor room.
Karangahake House draws inspiration from typical Kiwi tramping huts with an intermediary space that draws light in through the roof.
A semi-transparent roof draws soft, filtered light into the outdoor room. In cooler weather, barn doors enclose the space.
Sitting beside the river in Hagley Park, Riverside House is comfortable light-filled retreat away from the nearby city.
Looking across a courtyard to the house from the separate garden pavilion, which contains the swimming pool, spa and change room.
At Point Chevalier House, distinctive screens pay homage to the local neighbourhood.
Internally, the screens create a movement of light and shadow around the interior spaces.
Vineyard House is a simple, sculptured form that is cranked to face the morning sun.
The living area of Vineyard House faces the grape vines and the afternoon sun.
The roof on Northland Lake House is free from the main part of the existing house, proving shelter without compromising the views.
The roof is punctured with square light wells allow natural light by day, diffused by honey-coloured translucent onyx stone slabs providing a glowing ambient light in the evening, supplemented by artificial light.
8 Light Houses – capturing the New Zealand sun
8 Light Houses – capturing the New Zealand sun
Two distinct pavilions create a form that a changes angle in response to the irregular site boundary,  providing a sheltered yet sunny outdoor living area.
High windows draw sunlight into the mezzanine space and  through into the main living area.
The gable roof is clad in polycarbonate to allow daylight and warmth into Amberley House's new addition.
A long, narrow strip of polycarbonate roofing draws soft, diffused light into the bedroom, adding texture and interest to a recycled brick wall that runs the entire length of the new addition.
Abberley House by RTA Studio.
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