Lake Hayes House
Resting on the shore of Lake Hayes with expansive views to Coronet Peak, Lake Hayes House by Crosson Architects embraces its rugged Queenstown setting.
Queenstown, on New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its dramatic alpine landscapes and stunning lakes. Strategically located on a flat, north-facing site, Lake Hayes House makes the most of this incredible natural backdrop. “It’s a beautiful, tranquil environment with panoramic views,” says Kate Wyatt, associate at Crosson Architects. “You experience vast landscapes of rolling hills with snow-capped mountains, green landscape with bush and the rocky formations of the hill behind us really lends itself to a great spot for an architectural home.”
The project began as a significant alteration and addition to the existing structure to make it more functional and liveable, as well as bring it in line with the local Central Otago aesthetic. “The first part was with regards to the internal planning and reconfiguring the spaces to be more cohesive and open … creating other moments within the interior, such as wine cellars, bars and sculleries,” she says. “The second part was in relation to the exterior form and materiality … how we could better connect the existing home to the landscape.”
From a winding driveway, the upgraded entry – once an understated back door – opens out into a generous volume with picture windows framing the expansive views. A new dining extension and spectacular double-height covered courtyard flow from the extruded gable form, while a scullery and bar are tucked away behind timber-panelled doors. The main living quarters are in the central portion of the house with wings for both family and guests to keep the home feeling cosy and intimate.
Natural materials were key to embedding the home in its surrounding environment. “We wanted the house to feel like it belonged here, while also feeling refined and timeless,” says Wyatt. “Although we had used raw, rugged materials on the outside, such as local schist and Corten steel … it was important that the interior still felt calm, warm and inviting.”
Central to this was the use of timber, including Western red cedar panelling and flooring. “We chose Forté for this project because we love the rustic nature of the Artiste Grand Van Gogh timber flooring,” she says. “It was chosen by the client, not only for its beautiful nature, but also because it will stand the test of time.” The wider boards were well suited to the home’s large, internal spaces, while the brushed, grey-brown surface and subtle wash enhances the woodgrain pattern, giving it the look of hand-cut timber.
For Wyatt, there are many special moments throughout the home – but one in particular stands out. “The central gable pavilion with the dining room extension connects the interior to the exterior and beautifully frames the lake with Coronet Peak beyond.”
Architecture by Crosson Architects. Interior design by Trenzseater. Build by Alpine Group Construction. Structural engineering by Silvester Clarke. Flooring by Forté.
