Closeburn House

Closeburn House is placed within a clearing of NZ Native Beech on a raised plateau overlooking Lake Wakatipu. The native bush and alpine character of the site, called for a structure crafted entirely of wood and stone. The resulting design has created a dwelling that is in balance and harmony with its setting.  The plan form wraps around the edge of the plateau, providing rooms that open out to the lake view and also into a sheltered garden surrounded by the forest. Gently sloping roofs reach out to the bush and allow the evening sun to penetrate the dwelling as it descends below the mountain rim. Cedar cladding wraps around all exterior soffit and wall surfaces to maintain the simplicity and character of the design, and to create a sense of ‘oneness’ with the forest. Timber continues to run through the interior spaces in American oak. Two massive stone fireplace/chimneys pin the airy and lightweight timber structure to the land.