Property winner looks to future

Many of New Zealand’s most significant new homes are built in the Queenstown area, where mountain and lake views reign supreme.

The Master Builders Southern Supreme House of the Year is such a house. Built by DCD, the house also took out the Resene New Home Over $2 million category, Pink Batts Craftsmanship Award, McKenzie & Willis Interior Design Award, APL Sustainable Excellence Award, Plumbing World Bathroom Excellence Award and a Gold Award.

The judges said the simple form of the house belies the complexity, technology, and workmanship required of the build.

‘‘A standout feature is that the landscape has contributed to the home through the use of materials such as quarried schist from the building site.

‘‘Environmental sustainability has been implemented from the ground up. Quarrying stone from the site for the walls was just the beginning. This large home is energy neutral due to a 20kW solar array, battery banks, triple-glazed windows, sophisticated ventilation systems and passive solar control.

‘‘It is also completely self-sufficient due to its own water supply, generator and stormwater treatment. This home looks towards the future.’’

In announcing the bathroom excellence award, the judges said the master bedroom en-suite has an elegant composition that combines function and style.

‘‘A merger of stone and glass provides a simple yet sophisticated feel to the room. The standout feature is the magnificent view out to the dramatic alpine landscape.’’

DCD also won the $1.5m to $2m category and a Gold Award for another Queenstown house – a traditionally styled home with Oregon trussed gables.

The Southern Supreme Renovation of the Year went to Dunlop Builders for a home in Wanaka. The project also took out the Bunnings Renovation Over $1m category, and a Gold Award.

Dunlop Builders also won the Gib Show Home Award, and a Gold Award, for a home in Wanaka.

The Carters New Home $1m to $1.5m category and a Gold Award was won by Christie Brothers Building for a Wanaka house.