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Stunning photos show Otago's best new architecture
Otago’s top new architecture projects include heritage restorations, rammed earth homes and striking modern retreats.
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The Southern Architecture Awards have recognised 27 outstanding Otago projects, showcasing innovative design and sustainable building practices.
Highlights include Wānaka's Garden House, praised for its use of recycled materials, and Arrowtown's Courtyard House, a stunning lakeside retreat. Other notable winners are Dunedin's low-carbon Ōtepoti Building and the technically impressive Rare Earth home. These projects demonstrate a focus on heritage restoration, modern design, and the use of sustainable materials like rammed earth and local stone.
The Ayrburn Precinct
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Here it is, the double award winner in both the heritage and hospitality categories - the judges say this restaurant Billy’s Homestead by SA Studio carefully balanced its heritage with modern use. The judges noted how the architects carefully allowed the become a restaurant while keeping its strong historic character. The interior of Burr Bar at Aryburn Precinct, also a winner this year, which serves cockails inside a cosy, layered and textured space.
Garden House
Garden House has a compact 111m² floorplan designed for a family of four, and has greenhouses on site. Garden House has top level insulation and triple glazing, making it warm and cozy all year round.
Courtyard House
Interior spaces were carefully arranged to open toward Waiwhakaata, or Lake Hayes. A carefully planned entry leads down into a sheltered courtyard, where planting, water, and natural light create calm.
Ōtepoti Building is home to ACC workers. Photo: Ian Hutchinson
Mount Cardrona Station by Homestead
The judges praised the building’s connection with outdoor spaces and surrounding views. The palette is simple and carefully controlled, with nothing feeling excessive.
Rare Earth
Assembly Architects Set included a green roof, and circular skylight. The interior is restrained, calming and tonal.
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