Waimate, South Canterbury

In this house, V stands for voguish. And views. It also represents form. The 380sqm home has two pavilions angled into a V, with the entrance at the apex. The wings open out to rural vistas, and are connected with extensive decking. There’s wow-factor aplenty – one wing is clad in weathered steel, the other in plaster. From the deck, timber steps lead down a landscaped slope to an expanse of grass. In time the trees will grow into a glade. The three-bedroom, two-bathroom (plus powder room) home spreads out over a single level, with a mezzanine above the kitchen providing a lounge and office. Downstairs, the steel-clad pavilion is dedicated to the kitchen and open-plan living and dining. There’s also a hall leading to the garage and a wine room. The owners milled and supplied the oak flooring for the kitchen. Black steel framing, pitched panelled ceilings and polished concrete are offset by sage green walls. Light floods in through sliders, skylights and floor-to-ceiling and clerestory windows. The other wing contains the private spaces and services: the bedrooms, including the main suite with ensuite; family bathroom; and laundry. This home won Aaron & Nikki McKay a gold award in their category of House of the Year regional awards, as well as a lifestyle award for the best kitchen.