Sitting unobtrusively in the Hawke’s Bay landscape, this is an architecturally striking, high-end build. What you first appreciate is how beautifully it blurs the lines between indoors and out. Look closer, and the detailing and finishes are flawless. In other words, it has been constructed by builders at the top of their game. There’s a lot to take in, and not just because the property has a 350sqm footprint, three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two living spaces and triple garaging. Cedar and stone cladding help settle the house into its semi-rural site. Inside, timber walls and ceilings coupled with widespread glazing imbue it with warmth. This is especially evident in the streamlined kitchen with bespoke joinery and island/breakfast bar. Venture into the long open-plan zone and beyond to see stone features that add a touch of Palm Springs luxe.

Open sliders and step into an outdoor room where you’ll find a louvred roof, fireplace, furniture and uninterrupted rural views. On the opposite side of the house is a wide apron of timber decking, accessed through the same communal space, as well as the main bedroom. It’s not so much indoor-outdoor flow as a confluence of beautiful, light-filled spaces. Integrated technology, energy efficiency and sustainable design are less visible signs of excellence, but are equally important. The builders have delivered a template for a tasteful, sophisticated and skilfully crafted house — one that puts the glow into flow.