Te Whare Rakau is more akin to an urban rather than a suburban family home, being closely surrounded by houses on three sides and overlooking a road. A sheltered deck and inset balcony, along with distinctive angles and planes, help to create privacy and maximise views of Lake Wanaka from different parts of the home.

From the private yet inviting entrance-way, the house draws you in, through an interior gallery, to the heart of the home where views expand through the treetops to the mountains beyond.