This is a special project for the qualified architect and builder who designed and crafted this property – it is a retirement home for his parents. His mum and dad wanted a single-level house that reflected the Central Otago landscape and was suited to the climate, and that’s exactly what they’ve got with this lovely three-bedroom, three bathroom home that captures the sun and views to the Pisa and Dunstan ranges. Natural materials feature throughout. The exterior is clad in western red cedar, with the garage in corten steel. Inside, birch plywood has been extensively used to provide continuity with the timber cladding. Rimu features in the kitchen benchtop, pendant light and bespoke vanity tops in the bathrooms. The carefully selected quality materials and the house design cut down maintenance – ideal for Mum and Dad. The vaulted open-plan L-shaped living area features extensive glazing, a woodfire and connects to a sheltered courtyard created by a recess in the rectangular 225sqm floorplan. There are places to cosy up, inside and out. Landscaping takes cues from its Central Otago location, and the flair – there’s a yellow front door – is courtesy of the architect and craftsman behind this labour of love.