fearon hay architects builds house in new zealand's alps as cluster of blackened volumes

surrounded by the mountain ranges of new zealand’s southern alps, the alpine terrace house by fearon hay architects comprises a cluster of of blackened rectangular buildings set around a central courtyard. the residence is designed as a low profiled retreat perched in the open landscape, protected by the elements through its timber, steel, metal, and stone perimeter, which provides a sanctuary for the interior. during good weather days, the exterior enclosure can be opened, revealing the house’s floor-to-ceiling glass walls that offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.all images by simon wilson

fearon hay architects has spread the residence’s 370 sqm in a cluster of four simple rectangular forms, built around a central courtyard that allows for free movement between them. located on a sloping terrace surrounded by mountain ranges overlooking the wakatipu basin in new zealand’s southern alps, the house is protected by the harsh elements through its perimeter, which combines blackened timber, steel, metal and stone. on good weather days, the perimeter can be opened to allow for views of the surrounding landscape, while on harsh weather days the external shell remains closed. set on a sloping terrain, the four, single-level volumes have all been all built on a plinth, which is anchored on the ground and gradually transforms into a floating ledge.

project info:

name: alpine terrace house

architect: fearon hay architects

floor area: 370 sqm

team: gordon gallagher and piers kay

design architect: tim hay and jeff fearon

interiors: dean sharpe of archistay

location: new zealand