STATION BAY
This concept for a family holiday home, set on the outer edge of Lake Tekapo, is shaped by the surrounding landscape and the shifting demands of seasonal occupation. The design strikes a balance between permanence and informality—a place to arrive, unwind, and disconnect, with just enough structure to support the ebb and flow of guests, weather, and time.
Organised across two split levels, the house accommodates four bedrooms, a compact office nook, and an attic-style bunk room. Two bedrooms occupy the lower level alongside a shared bathroom, while the upper level contains a further two bedrooms and additional bathroom. One of these spaces is designed as a flexible zone—equally suited to use as a second lounge when not required for sleeping. Discreet internal doors allow the two levels to be separated, offering the option for dual occupancy or short-term rental use without compromise.
The upper floor is where the building opens up—both spatially and visually. The main living area is positioned here, orientated toward expansive views of Mount John, with access to a large, tapering deck that invites long afternoons and quiet mornings in the sun. High-level glazing draws the alpine light deep into the interior, while articulated gable-end screens provide shading and privacy where it counts.
Material choices have been made with longevity in mind. A restrained palette of metal cladding and schist reflects the tonal character of the Tekapo landscape, offering durability in a region known for its climatic extremes. The familiar pitched roof is a nod to traditional alpine forms, while the crisp detailing keeps the architecture firmly in the present.
At just 200m², the house is deliberately compact, with a focus on quality of space over quantity. Bedrooms are sensibly sized to prioritise living areas, and ceiling heights are lifted on the upper floor to create a sense of volume and openness. A modest office space is integrated into the layout without becoming a dedicated room—another example of the design’s emphasis on versatility.
Storage has been well considered, with a feature shed to house bikes, kayaks, jet skis, and general outdoor gear. A covered carport provides shelter without the bulk of a full garage, and a timber pergola frames the entry with a quiet sense of rhythm and intent.
This is not a statement home, but a quietly confident response to context and brief—tuned to the environment, aware of its purpose, and designed to be used, not just looked at.