2016’s five best houses
2016 has been a crazy, unpredictable and oftentimes puzzling year. One area that has continued to make us smile, however, is the continuing high calibre of residential architecture across the country. Below, we showcase the top five most viewed houses on the website from the past year, from an industrial-style loft to a bright, breezy beach home.
1. Mount Eden House by Ponting Fitzgerald
The highlight of this central Auckland family home is the 45-metre-long wall made of rough scoria that winds its way through most of the house. Timber cabinetry, horizontal glass strips and a fireplace embedded in concrete are additional features that ensure this house is the perfect balance of rawness and elegance. More…
2. Kingswood House by MC Architecture Studio
This 100-year-old brick building near the Lyttleton port has been transformed into an industrial-style house. A labour of love for the owners, the home features many second-hand furniture and art pieces that complement the large Japanese-inspired windows and exposed trusses. More…
3. Langs Beach House by Box Living
A holiday house that can accommodate a fluctuating number of visitors, the home is situated on the side of a steep site and almost resembles a houseboat. Embracing its glorious sea views with decks on both levels and, inside, boasting a kitchen with an extra-large concrete bench, this home is ideal for entertaining on those long summer evenings. More…
4. Jack’s Point House by Hyndman Taylor Architects
The shifting single-pitched rooflines of this cedar-clad Queenstown house mimic the Remarkables range while distinguishing it from its neighbours. Set around a sheltered, private central courtyard, the interior features a range of comfy break-out spaces that are intimately connected with the extraordinary surrounding landscape. More…
5. Mount Maunganui House by Rogan Nash Architects
Breezy, bright and set right on the beach… who could ask for more in a holiday home? Add in privacy, an enclosed, sheltered courtyard and a louvred roof that allows the outdoor room to be used in various weather conditions, and you might have the perfect summer escape. More…