








Drawing inspiration from the traditional boathouse, the architecture presents a modern reinterpretation that blends functionality and aesthetics. The home’s form is broken into smaller gabled sections, evoking the character of a boathouse while ensuring privacy. These forms are arranged to engage with the lakeside environment, creating an interactive experience between the interior and nature.
The layout capitalizes on the lakeside location and prevailing easterly winds by positioning the house in a series of pavilions, creating sheltered outdoor terraces and courtyards for year-round enjoyment. From the street, the home presents a minimalist façade with limited openings, preserving privacy from the road and neighbouring properties. A stone wall at the entrance grounds the structure, and an understated front door leads to expansive views of the lake and mountains.
Inside, the home is flooded with natural light through pitched ceilings and large north- and west-facing glazing, framing stunning views of the surrounding canals and mountains. The interior design complements the home’s connection to nature, using a warm, calming colour palette and natural timber finishes to create a welcoming atmosphere. The simplicity of form and materiality ensures both comfort and elegance, making the space ideal for both intimate retreats and family gatherings.
The home strikes a balance between modern aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. It integrates stunning views, protection from prevailing winds, and privacy considerations, creating a tranquil yet dynamic space. The seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces provides the owners and their family the opportunity to fully embrace the lakeside lifestyle.
Chilton + Mayne Architecture is an Ashburton-based studio offering architectural and landscape design services across the South Island and throughout New Zealand.
We love working closely with our clients to bring ideas to life. Every project is different, and we’re all about finding the right solution for your site, your vision, and how you want to live or work.
For us, good design starts with listening—and ends with something you’ll be proud of.
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