This bespoke home was designed and built around the client’s passion for New Zealand’s nature, the Kowhai tree and Philip Johnson's Glass House. Its off-the-grid nature means it has a fully insulated foundation and floor, hydronic underfloor heating pipes powered by a log burner, thermally broken windows and low-E glass. In addition, the house is able to be run off a back-up generator if there are power cuts in its remote location.

With plywood linings representing the branches of the Kowhai tree, the house extends to the vista, offering breath-taking 360 degree views out to the Canterbury plains and North Canterbury. Sit and relax on the decks which are designed to be non-intrusive and fit into the land. The exceptional kitchen consists of super glossy, bright orange cabinetry, mixed with plywood and custom joinery around curved walls – a masterpiece in distinctive design. Similarly, the bathroom tiles are laid on a curve. With three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a comfortable living room, this is a family home with an eye for comfort and a zest for life.