Lake House, Kai Iwi Lakes

It’s Northland’s best kept secret, the warm waters of the Kai Iwi Lakes, a popular camping holiday destination for those in the know, including one of Chow:Hill’s valued clients with a long-time connection to the area. Such is the beauty of the lakes that maximising views of the water was a given for this family holiday house.

Intent on capturing and framing the lake’s image, the Lake House design concept was based around a series of floating planes that peel from the landscape, allowing the home to nestle into the contour of the elevated building platform. The two pavilion roofs of the main living area and master suite have the appearance of floating above the linear form of the house, which in turn creates an ever-changing play of light internally.

The long sleek building form stretches across the back boundary, providing panoramic lake views, while the surrounding native environment has been extended into the property with extensive planting in order to frame views of Lake Taharoa. 

With a dual driveway and drive-through garage, recreational activities such as launching the ski boat are made effortless. There is ample outdoor space for year-round use and a separate guest parking area adjacent to the independent camping amenities.

The material palette and colour selections were chosen to complement the context. Seamless connections from interior to exterior make the home feel larger than it is, ideal for entertaining and taking in the stunning vista.

The perfect lakeside holiday home.

Photography by: Amanda Aitken