Given the six-metre road frontage and eight-metre drop towards the Waikato River, this picturesque site presented significant challenges for this 317sqm architecturally designed home. With the original Lockwood removed and the overgrown garden cleared, creative engineering was needed to support neighbouring properties during construction. The result is a truly exceptional home. A modest black cedar weatherboard exterior is complemented by large cedar windows and doors, most of which face the river. Double car garaging, guest quarters and a gym share space with the light-filled entry at street level.

From here, a staircase — with large void and picture window looking out to the Hamilton Golf Club — and a lift takes you down into the main part of the home, where an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area, media room, and main suite all connect internally and via a large split-level deck. Two children’s bedrooms share their own private deck and nestle at the back of the house with a bathroom and utility rooms. Bright white ceilings and walls hero the lush, green outlook and timber floors bring warmth and practicality. Sheltered under the eaves of the house, outdoor living and dining take place on the deck in front of a generously sized gas fireplace. It’s also the spot to watch lawn and pool games, all set against the backdrop of the flowing Waikato River.