Crystal Residence comprises 4 uniquely designed architectural homes on a steep hill of Fernhill, 3km west of Queenstown, New Zealand.

Fronting the breathtaking lake Wakatipu, the project site spans 44 metres in altitude which allows unobstructed views to the lake from every part of the site, which the 4 holiday homes have been carefully positioned to maximise.

Each of the holiday homes are highly considered and curated in terms of design, sustainability, practicality in conjunction with their immediate and broader site conditions. The concept for these holiday homes is to consider them as individual residential pavilions that are embedded into the landscape. The main residence on the top of the site spreads across 4 levels that follow closely to the natural topography to reduce and minimise site excavation. The garage is located away from the main structure of the dwelling with a funicular linking the 2 structures to minimise visual bulk and to provide a sense of journey while travelling across the treetops. Similar to the main residence, the rest of the homes are all designed with a strong intent and very much specifically to their respective site contexts.

The external material palette primarily consists of timber, concrete and glass. Majority of the south facing facade of the homes are clad in large pane glazings to maximise the lake view whilst achieving a minimal and transparent aesthetic viewed from afar. The roof and floor of the buildings are made of concrete which achieves a high level of thermal efficiency and also minimises temperature fluctuations. The natural timber battens balance the solid concrete and reflective glazing while achieving a natural patina.

The interior of the homes is minimal, restrained and purposeful. The attention is very much focused on allowing the interior spaces to become a series of viewing platforms whilst providing their respective functionalities, beautifully.

The Crystal Residence is a project that blends amazing location, incredible view and purposeful architecture that unite all of the above into a series of unique spaces.