Hopper House

Whitianga waterways is the country’s first manmade island that creates a unique juxtaposition between the manmade and natural environment. Pacific Environments wanted to draw upon and incorporate this contrasting aesthetic into the design. To reflect the boat building, gold mining and kauri milling history of the town, natural materials such as stone and timber were incorporated throughout the landscaping, exterior and interior of the home. Large stone walls now act as features and visual resting points amongst the raw industrial look.

Although the home was to have a substantial footprint, its intention was not to be grandiose. A more honest and stripped back approach was preferred, where everything in the home had a seamless blend of practicality and aesthetics without compromising on quality or finish.

Soft light timber and clear coated ply was used throughout for the flooring, walls, feature stairs, coffered ceilings and other feature details giving the home a warmth that would have been lacking otherwise.

This 500m2 modern reduced-design house has pride of place on the waterway. Designed for the owners lifestyle, private courtyards allow for continuous outdoor living that flows seamlessly from inside, and comfortably holds the helicopter in the helicopter hanger.

Build by Cove Construction.
Photography by Erica Kurth.