Pointy Flat House by Chaney & Norman Architects

Pointy Flat House

342.4K profile views
219 saves

A sustainably built home with deep roots in place In Hāwea Flat, our clients set out to transform a rustic farm shed into a warm, sustainable home that connects deeply with the land around it. The design builds on the character of the original concrete and timber structures while adding two new “pods” to capture views of the surrounding mountains. The home is designed to be smarter, not bigger. Careful detailing — including high levels of insulation, airtight construction, and efficient heating and cooling systems — ensures year-round comfort with minimal energy use. Reused materials, like the original concrete pillars now forming garden steps, reflect the clients’ commitment to sustainability and creativity. Inside, the spaces balance connection and retreat, from open family areas to a secluded loft workspace with views of Grandview Mountain. Every choice was made for the owners’ way of life, not for the market — creating a home that feels honest, resilient, and truly part of its place.

Visit Website

Tags

thermal efficiency modern mountains addtions

Project team

Chaney & Norman Architects
Biddi Rowley

A sustainably built home in Hāwea Flat, transforming a rustic farm shed into a warm, energy-efficient residence with stunning mountain views and a commitment to environmental stewardship.

A sustainably built home with deep roots in place

In Hāwea Flat, our clients set out to transform a rustic farm shed into a warm, sustainable home that connects deeply with the land around it. The design builds on the character of the original concrete and timber structures while adding two new “pods” to capture views of the surrounding mountains.

The home is designed to be smarter, not bigger. Careful detailing — including high levels of insulation, airtight construction, and efficient heating and cooling systems — ensures year-round comfort with minimal energy use. Reused materials, like the original concrete pillars now forming garden steps, reflect the clients’ commitment to sustainability and creativity.

Inside, the spaces balance connection and retreat, from open family areas to a secluded loft workspace with views of Grandview Mountain. Every choice was made for the owners’ way of life, not for the market — creating a home that feels honest, resilient, and truly part of its place.

Completed: 2023

2510h 32m

Like this Project?
Hire Chaney & Norman Architects

Professional Reviews

1 / 2

“We’re often asked what we love about our home. Put most simply, it feels good to be in every room. We love the flow, how spaces are defined and linked, and the natural light in our home. The house was designed specifically for our site. We enjoy total privacy from the road and protection from the southern aspect. As soon as we walk in the front door the house opens up to allow unimpeded views from floor to ceiling of the lake and mountains to the north. Views of more than 180 degrees from edge to edge are delivered to every living area and to the master bedroom. The small open courtyard around which our house is built is a much-loved feature. It is open to the sky and fully glazed with sliders, so it offers passage through to every side of the house as well as introducing light into every space. Because of the interior courtyard there isn’t a single corridor in our home. And it’s is a nice sheltered spot for a first coffee. The den is hunkered down on the southern side of the house so you might expect it to be colder and darker. Instead it’s a room for all seasons. We have spectacular views to the north directly through the interior courtyard and the other living areas. The winter sun streams into the den via this courtyard. We appreciate the flexibility to re-purpose the den, made possible by the courtyard. Whilst there is usually both a visual & physical connection through the fully glazed courtyard into the den, it can be closed down to give privacy to anyone wanting “time out” or a separate work space. Adjacent to the kitchen and dining area, facing north to the lake, is an outdoor room we have called our Dropzone. It is nestled a few steps down against the house for wind protection, and to allow for uninterrupted views from the kitchen out to the lake. With the roof continued over and with a glass balustrade, we can enjoy our Dropzone even in mid-winter on a sunny day. Another part of our home we love! We knew we were building a home with energy and thermal efficiency but we have tended to take it for granted until we’ve visited some other homes in winter! It’s one of the behind-the-scene things we appreciate about our house. We love our elegantly simple home with clean lines. Our architect thought outside the square to deliver what lies within the exterior walls.”

Lake Wanaka Courtyard House clients