LIGHT, VIews, and thoughtful design in matakana

Tucked away in the hills of Matakana, this architectural gem built by Aaron Butler Construction (ABC) celebrates light, views, and thoughtful design. Devised by architect Steve McCracken and architectural designer Martin Harnish, the home seamlessly integrates with its breathtaking surroundings.

The appeal of this home lies in its extensive use of windows to frame the stunning views, each positioned to take full advantage of the sweeping panoramas of the Sandspit Harbour and blur the boundaries between the indoors and outdoors.

The team at ABC chose Fairview Rodney windows and doors for their combination of flush surfaces, square shapes, and timber liners. These create a clean, modern aesthetic, further enhanced by the simple, natural design of the Kanso hardware. The result is a cohesive, contemporary look that allows the harbour views to take centre stage.

ABC works with Fairview on most of their projects to guarantee innovative and high-quality solutions for simple builds through to architecturally designed homes that require a bespoke approach.

Originally envisioned as a holiday home, the owners loved the area so much that they decided to renovate and make it their permanent residence. The transformation was no small feat; the existing building needed extensive updates to match their vision.

The team at ABC modernised the home while preserving its original charm, with the windows playing a pivotal role in redefining the space. The middle section of the home was opened up, creating a continuous flow of light that draws the eye outward to the harbour. The original timber floors were retained, giving the airy interior a sense of warmth while retaining something of the history of the bach.

Floor-to-ceiling windows in the master bedroom, which opens onto a cantilevered balcony, offer an unparalleled experience, allowing the owners to wake each morning to uninterrupted water views.

This once-simple bach has been thoughtfully redesigned into a modern and elegant home thanks to the homeowners' and their architects’ vision. With the help of ABC’s construction expertise and the smart use of Fairview architectural window joinery to enhance the home’s connection to the surrounding landscapes, the breathtaking views now take centre stage in every room.

Photography by Tayla Keon at Dynamic Digital