This new home on Bluff Hill embraces its panoramic views of the bush and ocean, complementing the landscape with easy-on-the-eye symmetry, challenging though it was to build. The Inspired Projects build took place on a steep site below the road, and now boasts an elevated steel framework and expansive glass doors across two floors. The four-bedroom home has two living areas and three luxurious bathrooms, all within a modest 178sqm footprint. Sprawling wraparound decks offer versatile outdoor living options regardless of the wind direction.

A paramount concern for the clients was the home’s maintenance and operating costs in their retirement years. To address this, low-maintenance cladding materials were used, such as Colorsteel and fibre-cement weatherboards, resilient against the Hawke’s Bay sun for extended periods. The exterior walls were increased to 140mm to bolster insulation, reducing heating needs in winter and cooling demands in summer. The interior also includes a motorised blind system to optimise sunlight control and minimise heat gain. Solar panels on the roof offset energy consumption, ensuring minimal utility expenses. The home is beautiful to live in, with chic, black accents throughout its expansive kitchen and bathrooms, plush living spaces and a sheltered deck for gazing at the views.