Earthquake rebuild on tight budget dazzles to win top award

The dark exterior is contrasted by the light interior to reinforce the sense of a sanctuary within. It’s also a nod to the home’s Japanese influence

Although designed as a “forever home”, the house is transportable.

There’s a strong Japanese architectural influence, evident in much of the detailing.

The house glows by night.

The judges praised the experience of “light, rhythm and calm” in the renovation.

Beautiful timbers are a feature of the interior of the Mount Maunganui house.

Gareth Ritchie of Archco Architecture won the National Award for New Home over 300m² for this project Burntwood in Pegasus, North Canterbury.

Boundaries between inside and outside are blurred.

Macandrew Lane by Sam Connell, Figure & Ground won the National Award for a New Home between 150m² and 300m².

The Macandrew Lane project is in Wānaka.