With owners seeking a home that would function as beautifully as it looked, architect Gregg Crimp was engaged for his expertise in passive design. In the Wairarapa’s extreme climate, their goal was to create a residence with a consistent, comfortable, year-round temperature that they could control, rather than having to adapt to seasonal fluctuations. The brief was simple and functional: three bedrooms with separation for privacy, a media room, and open-plan living with no unnecessary small spaces. A separate laundry was also on the list as was single-car garaging big enough for full door clearance and storage, and a carport for everyday use. Although two storeys was not the initial plan, the design, which located three double bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs, with a double-height void above the kitchen and dining space below, resonated immediately.

Aside from including an elevator for futureproofing, there were virtually no changes to the initial programme — testament to the clarity of vision and design alignment from the outset. High levels of insulation, thermally efficient joinery, triple glazing and a heat-exchange system underpin the home’s performance. Independent passive modelling led to minor refinements, including slightly smaller windows and external blinds to manage summer heat. The result is a home that delivers exceptional comfort in every season.