House of the Year

Southern Competition Renovation $1 million - $2 million

Right On Cue

When your property is in one of the most spectacular landscapes in the country, it makes perfect sense to take renovation cues from the raw beauty.

This 163sqm apartment has been skilfully remodelled to harmonise with its moody surrounds, including Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables. It also draws inspiration from the region’s architectural vernacular — timber, schist and steel. These glorious hues and textures outside are echoed inside, lending natural warmth and interest to the spaces. This project also involved a repositioned kitchen with scullery, and the addition of a steam-free infrared sauna and mudroom.

Spilling from the open-plan communal space is the balcony with new membrane, tiles on deck jacks, and an outdoor kitchen and fire. It’s clear the renovated three-bedroom, three-bathroom apartment makes the most of its space, but also that the level of craftsmanship here is every bit as good as the premium materials and design. Comfort, health, safety and soundproofing measures were also part of the renovation equation and include everything from high-performance insulation to acoustic flooring underlay. Warmth comes courtesy of quiet multi-room heat pumps; the insulation and thermally broken aluminium joinery enhance energy efficiency.

Is there a better place from which to soak in the splendour on the doorstep?