Kelvin Heights House - Award-Winning Architecture
Project's Summary
Kelvin Heights House is an architectural masterpiece that won the NZIA 2018 Southern Architecture Award, demonstrating the perfect fusion of design and nature. The house is discreetly positioned from the street, creating an inviting sense of privacy while opening to dramatic views of Lake Wakatipu. The jury citation aptly describes it as 'discreet and restrained from the street', which perfectly encapsulates the house's thoughtful design.

Situated on a steeply sloping site, the house cleverly navigates the challenges presented by the rocky escarpment that divides the property. This unique topography not only offers stunning vistas but also necessitates innovative architectural solutions. The design emphasizes careful planning and site orientation, ensuring that both internal and external spaces are optimized for year-round enjoyment, regardless of the weather.

The architectural solution comprises two wedge-shaped forms, artfully arranged to fit within a 7.0m height control envelope while maximizing views. The southern wedge, housing guest bedrooms, presents an appealing façade with its stepped metal cladding, hinting at the dynamic level changes within. In contrast, the northern wedge opens to magnificent views, housing the main living areas and master suite, creating a harmonious blend of comfort and luxury.

Construction posed significant challenges, particularly due to the site's steepness and rocky terrain. The building's foundation is ingeniously anchored into the schist stone, with starter bars meticulously driven into the rock. This method not only provides stability but also exemplifies the innovative spirit of modern architecture. The ground-works and up-to-slab construction accounted for nearly half of the build duration, showcasing the complexities of working in such a challenging environment.

As one progresses through the house, a series of carefully curated glimpses of the stunning surroundings unfold, leading to a breathtaking living space adorned with oversized glass panes. This design choice creates a seamless connection with the landscape and evokes a sense of floating above the lake, an experience that is both exhilarating and serene. The Kelvin Heights House stands as a testament to the art of architecture, blending modern aesthetics with the raw beauty of New Zealand's landscape.
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