A small stone and glass dwelling designed by Fearon Hay Architects is nestled high on a mountain next to Lake Wakatipu on the South Island of New Zealand. Providing an all-season retreat for a young family, the box-like shelter melds into its landscape, clad with locally sourced schist stone. Entryway into the home is accessed from above, from a gravel-covered roof. Metal handrails frames a stone stairwell that leads its visitors down the hillside and onto the ground floor. Comprised of 1,076 square feet (100 square meters) with two bedrooms, one of which is accessed through the living room by way of a sliding wall of wood. The other is a bunk room that offers four bunks beds hidden behind the kitchen area. There is only one bedroom in the cabin, spacious in design, it offers dual sinks and a separate shower and tub. The interior design is both masculine and refined, which takes cue from its surrounding environment, while at the same time offering plenty of comfort which is needed for a mountain retreat. The ruggedness takes form in the exposed concrete walls and flooring.

An open plan living, dining and kitchen area give a sense of living with nature, with walls of glass wrapping around two sides of the dwelling. The glass disappears into the wall, blurring the boundaries between inside and out. The roofline over the living room cantilevers out without support columns, not only offering shade but majestic views of the lake and mountains. The cabin is quite remote, so the homeowners collect water from a nearby stream to filter as drinking water. The suspended fireplace (fireorb) in the living room offers the home plenty of heat, while at the same time the concrete floors throughout features radiant floor heating.

We have featured other home tours by Fearon Hay Architects here on 1 Kindesign, have a look:

Absolutely breathtaking family home in Auckland

Unique TriBeCa loft with stylish design

What We Love: The clean lines, simpleness of design and magnificent views offered through walls of glass, bringing nature into this modern retreat….oh, and we love the fire orb! What are your thoughts about this home design?

Photos: Patrick Reynolds