Alpine Refuge

Cardrona, New Zealand
Completion: 2025

Located at the foot of Mt Cardrona in the South Island of New Zealand, two gable pavilions balance atop a masonry wall overlooking the natural landscape beyond.  

 

×
Block 1

The client wanted a house that had a strong connection to the surrounding natural landscape and accommodate two families – including their recreational pursuits of mountain biking and skiing.

Serving as an alpine refuge, it was necessary to shade the vertical surfaces of the building from solar radiation and provide protection from extreme winter weather events by incorporating window shutters, and eaves with gutters eliminated.

Block 4
Block 5
Block 6

The program is broken into three components: the lower level containing main arrival, mud room, sauna, garaging and staircase to gallery above. The Living pavilion to the north containing the kitchen and dining areas designed for informal family gatherings, the eastern living room with views towards Mt Cardrona and the western living overlooking the Criffel and Pisa Ranges. The Sleeping pavilion to the south contains the master bedroom, two guest suites and bunkroom.

Block 8
Block 9
Block 10

The two pavilions are slightly raised above the ground level to provide protection from snow, moisture, and summer dust. The walls and screens are charred timber boards, and the roof is corrugated galvanized steel.

Block 12