A family farm near the Clutha River provided the architects with the ultimate canvas for this 300sqm piece of art flooded with natural light. Two linked gable forms, clad in vertical cedar weatherboard and timber-batten rain-screen over plywood, assert their place in the Central Otago landscape without detracting from it. Flowing from and connecting these pavilions are nooks and decks for outdoor get-togethers and relaxing. Between pavilions you’ll also find the impressive entry with its welcoming landscaped path.

The bedroom wing invites indirect southern light through hallway windows and northern sun into the rooms themselves. The four bedrooms include the main suite, which has a walk-in dressing room and ensuite. A family bathroom serves the other rooms. A study, powder room, media room and storeroom are tucked into the connecting space before the wing merges into the glorious open-plan zone with kitchen, scullery, dining and living zones. Off to one side is a sunny deck with views of the mountains that surround Lake Hawea. These vistas can also be enjoyed from the bath. Soaking and scenery – a magic combo. Off the other side is a sheltered patio for alfresco dining and entertaining that almost doubles the size of the living area. This links to the second pavilion, which accommodates the laundry, double garage and that farm essential – a mudroom.