Warmth, Light and Landscape: A modern alpine home.

Client: Private Residential Individuals based in Wanaka

Architect: Johnston Architectects 

Photographer: John Williams Photography

An Elevated Retreat

Set just beyond Wānaka’s main township, nestled near Sticky Forest and the foothills of Mount Iron, this private residential home is a refined example of modern alpine living. Designed to embrace light, landscape, and flow, the home balances crisp architectural lines with warm, tactile materials creating a relaxed but elevated retreat.

At the heart of the home is a striking pavilion‑style living space. Large ranch sliders sit at both ends of the room, allowing the entire space to open fully, one direction leading out to a sun‑soaked deck, the other to a louvre‑covered porch anchored by a bold concrete outdoor fireplace. Whether closed for winter warmth or opened wide in summer, the living area adapts effortlessly to Wānaka’s ever‑changing seasons.

The sense of scale inside is immediately impressive. A soaring ceiling clad in Birch ply panels draws the eye upward, softening the architecture while adding warmth and acoustic comfort. This natural timber finish is echoed throughout the interior furniture selections, creating a cohesive palette that feels intentional and calm. Pale corrugated steel roofing and cladding further reinforce the clean, contemporary language of the home, offering a subtle industrial edge that still feels distinctly suited to its alpine setting.

Grounded Comfort Indoors

In the main living zone, comfort and form sit side by side. The Emmett Sofa in both two and three‑seater configurations anchors the room, offering a relaxed silhouette with generous proportions, perfect for long evenings spent unwinding with family or friends. Upholstered in rich, tactile materials, the sofas bring depth and softness to the space without competing with the architecture.

The dining area continues this theme of warmth and refinement. The Harrison Dining Table in natural oak sits beneath the peak of the ceiling, its solid timber form grounding the verticality of the space. Paired with Icho Dining Chairs in natural, the setting feels timeless and inviting, designed for everyday meals as much as longer gatherings that stretch into the evening. At the adjacent kitchen island, Mackenzie Bar Stools in natural complete the picture, providing casual seating that echoes the same workmanship and material honesty.

In the master suite, the Stella Armchair in linen introduces a lighter, more sculptural note. Its soft curves and natural tones enhance the brightness of the room, while offering a quiet space to pause and take in the surrounding landscape.

Seamless Outdoor Living

Outdoor spaces are treated with equal intention. On the deck, two Arc Outdoor 3 Seater Sofas in charcoal offer generous seating while maintaining a light visual footprint. Their curved forms and durable finishes are softened by the surrounding landscape, while the Cardrona Outdoor Coffee Table in anthracite grounds the arrangement with a strong, sculptural presence.

A separate patio zone creates a more intimate outdoor moment. Two Arc Outdoor Lounge Chairs are paired with a Palmer Outdoor Aluminium Side Table in charcoal, forming a quiet corner for morning coffee or golden‑hour drinks. On the opposite deck, the Tahoe Outdoor Picnic Table in charcoal offers a contemporary take on a Kiwi classic, ideal for casual dining, entertaining, or simply enjoying long alpine afternoons outdoors.

Designed for Light, Built for Living

Throughout the home, there’s a clear reverence for light and resting space. The furnishings feel minimalistic without lacking warmth. It’s sparse and spacious without feeling overly curated, and every space feels connected the way a family home should. This Wānaka home is a thoughtful expression of modern residential design, where furniture enhances the architecture rather than competing with it.