MERINO DOWNS

Situated within the premium Merino Downs residential development in Twizel, this new home occupies a setting defined by the wide open skies and dramatic alpine backdrop of the Ben Ohau Range. The design responds to this landscape with genuine sensitivity — neither turning its back on the views nor simply exposing itself to them, but instead pursuing framed, considered connections that evolve as you move through the home.

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A pavilion-style layout with pitched and monopitch roof forms creates a composition of interconnected volumes that feel grounded in their environment while offering architectural interest from every vantage point. At its core, the home is built around a generous open-plan kitchen, dining, and family living space, enriched by a walk-in pantry and connected to a sunken lounge that accommodates a grand piano — a striking centrepiece anchored by a double-sided fire shared between the two living zones. A built-in bar bridges these spaces, ensuring the home is as suited to entertaining as it is to everyday life.

 

The master suite includes a walk-in robe and en-suite, while three additional guest bedrooms share well-considered bathroom facilities. A separate powder room serves as overflow for guests and visitors. A pool, BBQ area, sheltered deck, and outdoor living spaces are carefully placed to balance privacy, solar access, and prevailing wind — a non-trivial design challenge in Twizel's exposed alpine environment. Two double garages accommodate cars, a boat, and a ride-on mower. Material selection throughout acknowledges the rigours of the alpine climate, prioritising durability and low maintenance. In-floor hydronic heating and green building principles underpin a home designed to perform as well as it looks.