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Hawkesbury Residence by Marmol Radziner

By Eric Meunier

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Los Angeles-based studio Marmol Radziner has designed the Hawkesbury Residence project.

Completed in 2011, this 2,150 square foot, three bedroom, two and a half bath, contemporary home is located in Mt Barker, Wanaka, New Zealand.

Hawkesbury Residence by Marmol Radziner

Project
Marmol Radziner is the design architect for this  three bedroom-home at the base of a windswept slope in the Wanaka Valley in New  Zealand.  HMA Architects of Wellington,  New Zealand is the executive architect and coordinated the project locally.

Site
With distant views of alpine peaks, the hillside  site overlooks rolling farmland. The site faces north, directly into the  blazing sun of the southern hemisphere. Strict agency requirements limited both  the size and form of the home in relation to the slope. The climate is one of  extremes with very hot summers and freezing cold winters.

Design
The approach to building on this barren hillside was  to merge with the slope, rather than to stick out from it. In response to the  climactic extremes, a distinctive roof form protects the home from the sun with  generous roof overhangs.  Inspired by the  form of the hillside, the roof is shaped like an upside down checkmark. A long,  thin footprint allows for views of the mountains from every room. Entry is  through the side of the house with circulation along the back wall.  Upon entering the rooms, the strong  horizontals of the roof and deck frame the view.</p>

The massing consists of two volumes, public and  private, that are linked by a staircase.   The first volume contains the “great room” including the kitchen, living  room and indoor/outdoor dining rooms. At the back of the great room, a wood  wall conceals the study, bathrooms, refrigerator and ladder access to a  sleeping loft. Sliding glass doors open to the pool and exterior lounge area. A  retaining wall,  constructed of a local stone called Gibbston Valley Schist, runs from the living  room to the exterior patio and incorporates an outdoor fireplace and benches. The  second volume is the private wing containing the master suite and children’s  rooms.

Phase
Construction of the home was completed in 2011.”

Photos by: Emily Andrews

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About Eric Meunier

Currently the Owner and Chief Executive of HODYO Design, Eric Meunier's expertise in the design industry spreads over 20 years. He was the driving force behind HomeDSGN's early success, founding this website in 2011. Today, he loves to channel his passion for design into remodeling houses and transforming interior spaces with his keen eye for detail and architectural finesse. Learn more about HomeDSGN's Editorial Process.

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