Befitting Proportions – Twin Peaks View by Mason & Wales Architects

Generous in its spread, peaks of grey-toned forms sit comfortably in the vast landscape, overlooking enviable views and expansive vistas. Mason & Wales Architects conjures a befitting response to the surrounds, where lofted proportions match the openness that abounds through an enduring robustness.

The landscape of New Zealand’s South Island is characterised by glassy and reflective lakes, the recurring openness of valleys, and the surrounding protection of mountainous peaks. Twin Peaks View epitomises this interplay between form and landscape, aptly named based on its location and outlook. Positioned in Wyuna Preserve, sitting at the end of a scenic journey through similar and winding landscapes, the home was conceived and coordinated with its overseas client from afar. Sitting contentedly in its setting, the gabled forms are a familiar sight to the area and connect to both a rural and locally recognised vernacular. Mason & Wales Architects takes inspiration from the surrounding summits. As if pinching the overall volume upward, the interior experience of the home is elevated with an internal valley created through an undulating roofline silhouette.

Mason & Wales Architects take inspiration from the surrounding summits.

Twin Peaks View was built by Edge Construction and was project managed by Triple Star Management, allowing the delivery of the build to be monitored locally. Inspired by the traditional mountain lodge cabin, the home mimics similar grand proportions, where the oversized use of timber and sloping roof forms allow for the eased fall of snow. The planning allows for large gathering and entertaining spaces, all overlooking the impressive landscape, with large timber-framed full-height glazing to ensure a feeling of immersion within the surrounds.

The home sits firmly on its rock base as a pause in the falling landscape, as its large openings visually engage beyond the built edge. The exterior is clad in local Schist stone – widely and traditionally used for its robustness – together with concrete, timber and anodised triple-glazed glass, metal doors and windows. Internally, a similar tough resilience is brought inward, which is then warmed through oak panelling that encases the interior in an intentional warmth. While the vistas and the location are a clear focus of the home, the highly detailed and refined design aims to elevate the experience of being within the rural residence.

The home sits firmly on its rock base as a pause in the falling landscape, as its large openings engage with the surrounds.