Mt Iron Barn Home

Tucked down a winding right-of-way at the foot of Mt Iron, not far from the centre of Wanaka, this barn-like house is an idyllic retreat for a family of three. Set on spacious grounds with a backdrop of mature trees, the house is designed to reflect the rural structures of Central Otago, with a double storey form clad in pale cedar and a chunky Alpine Tray roof in Sandstone Grey. Oversized windows, colour-matched with the roofing metal, lend a contemporary aspect to the otherwise classical, barn-like architecture of the house.

Wanaka-based Condon Scott Architects designed the home to appear as though it has been repurposed from the bones of an existing barn, with recycled materials in the living spaces downstairs and attic-style bedrooms upstairs. The double-height living room with its high ceilings furthers this aesthetic, while the timber flooring, black steel framed island and shelving, and recycled brick wall in the kitchen help to create an aged look. Countering this, the white interior walls and comfortable, modern furniture ensure it is a warm and light-filled home for the family.

The exterior colour palette sets the tone for interior detailing

Externally, the pale cedar tones along with the Sandstone Grey metal roofing give the home a Scandinavian aspect. Timber screening on the upper windows prevents the home from overheating while also lending some visual texture. The living space flows to the outdoors with ease, with verandas providing al fresco dining opportunities and inviting the children to run on the flat lawn.

While entirely modern, the home has a sense of timelessness, due in large part to the material choices as well as its classical proportions.