This modest single story easy care alpine retreat sits quietly within the shadow of Twizel’s Ben Ohau range. A relaxed and informal entertaining retreat, the owners wanted a get-away home to spend time with friends and family and soak in the big skies and big landscapes of untouched horizons.

The house sits long-side to the spectacular mountain view and is positioned to provide uninterrupted views from all the main living areas and both master bedroom suites. The design takes advantage of the year-round morning sun and creates a home that feels like part of the landscape. Floor to ceiling glazing and sliding doors allow the house to be opened up.​

The evening terrace centred around the outdoor wood fired pizza fire is sheltered enough to feel cosy in winter but opens out to soak in the sunset during the late evening sun. Dark stained vertical cedar frames the main body of the house with gable end accents and feature walls of Glenorchy stone create a solid and defined house while providing a simple textural element.

Throughout the design the house retains a sense of sophistication that is balanced by a strong visual connection to the alpine landscape.

Photography by Lightforge Photography