Designed by Chilton + Mayne and built by Ryan Proffit Construction, this Ashburton home is a celebration of its picturesque surroundings wrapped up in a minimalist facade.

WORDS Kathy Catton PHOTOGRAPHY Lightforge Photography

Sidled up to the picturesque canals of Lake Hood, Ashburton, this newly built family residence embodies a blend of indoor comfort and outdoor beauty. Designed to be a timeless entertainer’s haven, this home reflects its owners’ active lifestyle while integrating with the breathtaking surroundings.

The home’s design philosophy centres around creating a deep connection with nature. Positioned strategically, all primary living spaces offer unobstructed views of the water of the canals and lake, as well as the majestic mountain landscapes beyond.

“Our goal was to ensure that every room feels like an extension of the outdoors,” says Garry Mayne, architectural designer at Chilton + Mayne. This vision enhances the daily living experience, and creates a tranquil yet dynamic environment where family and friends can gather.

To achieve this, the structure features two primary pavilions arranged in an elongated, asymmetrical H-shape. The gabled roofs, running from east to west, serve a dual purpose: they protect against the prevailing easterly winds while fostering a sense of openness towards the lake. Says Garry: “This layout allows us to create sheltered terraces and courtyards that can be enjoyed all year round, at the same time ensuring privacy from neighbouring properties.”

Approaching the home, you’re struck by its clean and minimalist facade. The exterior is designed with limited windows, enhancing privacy yet hinting at the expansive views available from within. The understated central front door invites curiosity, setting the stage for the vistas that await.

Inside, the ambience shifts dramatically as the pitched ceilings and generous glazing on the north and west sides allow natural light into the space. “It’s about bringing the landscape into the home.”

The interior design elegantly reinforces this connection. A den-like family media room serves as a cosy hub that links the master and living pavilions. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, contrasting with the more open and airy areas of the home.

A warm colour palette, combined with natural timbers and soft furnishings, infuses the space with a timeless quality. “We aimed for simplicity and comfort,” says Garry.

This attention to detail not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also creates a welcoming atmosphere for both family and guests.

Known for his attention to detail and hard-working nature, Ryan Proffit of Ryan Proffit Construction took on the challenge of constructing this home. Ryan was particularly impressed by the large panoramic windows that invite natural light and offer wide views of the lake, creating a sense of harmony between the indoor and outdoor spaces.

During the construction phase, Ryan says he faced the somewhat typical material delivery delays but prioritised close coordination with his team to make sure that each stage of the build remained on track without compromising quality. Ryan says he’s very proud of this project, with the underlying quality of the build reflecting the warm, inviting atmosphere of the design that the homeowners can enjoy for generations to come.

The home incorporates advanced building techniques, including 140mm external wall frames and thermally broken window and door joinery, creating a highly insulated thermal envelope. Durable concrete panels and Colorsteel tray cladding contribute to the low-maintenance exterior, while ethically sourced timber softens the overall look, making it both sustainable and visually appealing.

Sustainability is also at its heart. Garry emphasises energy efficiency and the use of durable, low- maintenance materials. “We focused on passive solar design principles,” he says, ensuring carefully placed windows and roof overhangs provided natural heating and cooling. Large sliding doors provide excellent cross- ventilation, further enhancing comfort.

What truly sets this home apart is its dedication to embracing the Lake Hood lifestyle. The design allows for multiple terraces and courtyards to ensure year-round enjoyment. Whether it’s hosting lively gatherings or enjoying a quiet evening by the water, the layout caters to all occasions.

For the family, this Lake Hood residence is a harmonious blend of aesthetic appeal, functionality and sustainable design. It manages to be both an intimate retreat and a hub for gatherings, perfectly embodying the essence of lakeside living.

With its thoughtful architecture, this home is not just a place to live; it’s a lifestyle. It invites its occupants to embrace nature, celebrate entertaining, and enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape – a perfect example of how considered design can elevate everyday living.