A lot of concrete went into the making of this luxurious riverside Christchurch home – 450 cubic metres in all. Although building on a long narrow section that backs onto a stream was a logistical challenge, the result was more than worth it for this house with five-plus bedrooms, four-plus bathrooms and three living areas. A suspended concrete floor slab on the second storey minimises sound in the house while still maximising the ceiling height on the floor below. Other features include an indoor cedar sauna and a painstakingly constructed totara wood ceiling, which enhances the architectural lines prominent in the house’s design. The natural stone fireplace and bespoke timber joinery are design statements, along with the floating engineered timber staircase. Both the kitchen and bathrooms are the epitome of modern, elegant styling with high-end fittings. There is a state-of-the-art heating system with many chambers carefully constructed to be hidden from view. This house offers clever design with luxurious finishes befitting such a grand edifice.