It’s not every build that reaches great heights in terms of location, unfussy design and quality, but this beauty manages it all. The threebedroom, two-bathroom builder’s home tucked into hills on the southern fringes of Christchurch shows how to make the most of an elevated position and an H-shaped design. The simple yet effective layout makes the most of its site to create places in which to relax and drink in views of the landscape and sunsets; multiple outdoor zones flow from the 224sqm house’s wings and recesses. Because of its position stepping down and cutting into the slope, the house has two levels.

On the lower part-level, you’ll find a double garage, laundry and a bedroom suite that opens to a covered deck with a hot tub and a blanket of lawn. To head upstairs, you’ll come across something that’s part structure, part work of art – a sweeping staircase with oak panelling and glass balustrades. On the upper floor, more heights are reached, including a glass “bridge” that links the open-plan wing for communal living to the one with three more bedrooms and a bathroom. Adding to the appeal of the property is the natural and moody-toned interior décor and the cladding: white plaster and contrasting charred timber (thermally modified pine). The landscaping — hardwood stairs, decorative rocks mixed with native planting and concreteblock walls — is simple and high quality.