Above: Enter here – a low glass
overhang echoes the substantial
cantilevered roofs above. In this area,
1m2 charcoal-hued Kerlite tiles form
a stone slab-like cladding. Intimate
gardens hug the front and rear of
the house.
Right: The concrete entry stair seems
to float above a slab, which in turn
appears to be suspended above the
floor. The sculptural bannister is in
gleaming stainless steel.
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Traditional roof profiles and schist walls are
two popular ways architects connect house
designs to the spectacular Otago high country.
But there is another approach to bringing the
river, mountains and architecture together.
This dramatic residence, nestled at the base
of the Wakatipu Basin and overlooking the wild
Shotover River, is the work of architect Gary
Todd, builder Glen Cayless and the owners,
who led the vision.
The house stands on a river terrace; its
sharp, Modernist lines resembling the shards of
a rocky outcrop, in keeping with the mountain
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topography everywhere around it, says Todd.
“In addition, an infinity edge swimming
pool visually melds with the river and, seen
from above, has the look of a rock pool.
“The house breaks with the tradition of
pitched, farmhouse-style roofs in this region,
and led to regulatory changes that acknowledge
modern homes can defer to the surroundings.”
Todd says visiting the house is a journey of
discovery. The approach is from the road above,
the drive wending down through an orchard
and around the side of the house to a parking
area at the lower level.