The Lake Hayes Home by Ben Hudson Architects is situated in the rocky, sloping terrain above the shore of Lake Hayes in Arrowtown, New Zealand. Designed with a low-lying form and natural materials, this 2023 project gracefully integrates with its surroundings.

The Lake Hayes House by Ben Hudson Architects is a contemporary home arranged over two levels interlocking with the rocky, sloping terrain above the shore of Lake Hayes, Queenstown, New Zealand.

The street elevation is designed to read as a simple low-lying solid form, with cues taken from the traditions of stone-walled hidden gardens. The stone, mortared in the traditional vernacular style of the region, anchors the building to its site and provides privacy and protection for the owners. Upon entering the home, there is a contrasting sense of transparency and lightness as the spaces open to the lake and the mountain views beyond. Generous glazing accentuates the sensation of floating above the landscape.
Glazed clerestory-style windows peak over the stone wall, drawing in natural light and allowing views to the surrounding hills and the treetops which form a backdrop to the dwelling.

From the street the home presents itself as a single-story building. The main living areas and master bedroom are located on this level, which connects to an outdoor terrace and wood fire overlooking the lake. Children?s bedrooms, study and family areas are located on the lower level, where rooms spill out onto an informal timber de...