Wings Over Water: A Swallow's Graceful Twist Over Queenstown
Nestled beneath the stunning peaks of Queenstown, Wings Over Water is a home that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Designed by Kamermans Architects, this four-bedroom residence is a harmonious fusion of architectural innovation and sustainable design. The home’s butterfly roof, with its double twisted planes, mirrors the undulating mountains of the Remarkables and Crown Ranges, creating a striking visual connection to the landscape.
Set beside a tranquil lake, the house reflects its elegant design in the still waters, creating a serene, almost surreal aesthetic. The landscape comes to life through the vibrant seasonal colours of the trees surrounding the property, beautifully mirrored in the lake. Liquidambar ‘Worplesdon’ trees line the driveway, their star-shaped leaves shifting from golden yellow to crimson, adding a stunning colour display as the seasons change.
The Pyrus communis 'Autumn Leaves' tree weeping gently near the reflection pool is one of our clients favourite trees providing a dramatic contrast, with its glossy green leaves turning a fiery crimson in Autumn, while the Prunus yedoensis (Yoshino Cherry) adds delicate almond-scented blossoms in Spring and a deep Autumn red hue. The Quercus palustris (Pin Oak) adds height and seasonal drama, transforming from green to vibrant red in the fall.
Designed by landscape architect Jude van Brandenburg, the plantings are thoughtfully placed to frame the property, enhancing the lake’s reflective surface with minimal grass, ensuring the water’s reflection is dominated by the sky. These careful design choices magnify the surrounding beauty, creating a place for contemplation and relaxation.
Inside, expansive windows provide panoramic views of Coronet Peak, Cardrona, and the Crown Ranges, connecting the home’s interior to its stunning natural surroundings. Sustainable features, including solar panels, rainwater collection, high-performance insulation, and triple glazing, ensure the home remains energy-efficient year-round. The conservatory functions as a thermal engine, providing passive heating in Winter and a breezy courtyard in Summer.
The name Wings Over Water reflects not only the distinctive roof design but also the artistry found in its surroundings. A striking steel sculpture by Simon Max Bannister enhances the beauty of the site, perfectly complementing the home’s architectural and natural elements.
This lakeside residence is a true masterpiece, where architecture, landscape, and sustainability unite to create a living experience that is both beautiful and functional, offering peace, serenity, and an unparalleled connection to nature.
