_Willow Park
RENOVATION / WAITAKI VALLEY
Willow Park is a Country Estate reimagined, an evolution of the family home. More than just the building itself, its idyllic nature-scape + surrounding farmland have long been an oasis for reflection + inspiration. Willow Park honours its past + respects its future with an entire renovation of the original Oamaru Stone homestead, a modern extension now doubles the footprint + brings Willow Park into a new era.
With Wellness Architecture at the core, the vision was to design a biophilic, sustainable, health + wellness home. One that regenerates it’s natural resources + continues to inspire in a much-elevated way.
All materials, products + finishes were mindfully curated. Aesthetically its where high-quality craftsmanship meets laid-back luxury. From a technical POV its where non-toxic + sound absorbing materials take centre stage, with circadian rhythm lighting + UV purified water for good measure.
The homestead consists of 8 bedrooms + ensuites, 3 living areas, 2 dining areas, 3 outdoor entertaining areas + a tranquil outdoor bath area.
_Awarded: Master Builder House of the Year 2022
NATIONAL AWARDS WON
National Supreme Renovation of the Year
National Category Winner
National Kitchen Excellence
Top 100
REGIONAL AWARDS WON
Regional Supreme Renovation of the Year
Regional Category Winner
Regional Gold
_Featured:
NZ House & Garden (cover)
Otago Daily Times
House of the Year Magazine
_Collaborators:
Architect / I Design
Landscape Architect / Design Squared
Builder / Roger Gilchrist Building Services
Project Management / Forgie Hollows & Associates
Good_Space Method
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A strong focus on non-toxic materials from the construction through to the interiors
Non-toxic paint + finishes including a custom water-based stains for all joinery
Low VOC and non-toxic glues + sealants
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Enhanced UV water filtration treats the water source before it reaches the homestead
Further water filtration installed in the kitchen, scullery and master ensuite; including instant boiling and sparkling water
The property uses hydro-power, directly from the Waitaki valley
The 2 ponds are natural habitat and sanctuary for both the native birds as well as the large family of ducks
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Circadian rhythm lighting controls the colour temperature in all rooms of the home
Natural light floods the inside spaces through ample glazing
Retractable electronic awning across the northern courtyard blocks afternoon glare
All skylights have electronic blinds when the sun is directly above the homestead for enhanced comfort
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The Interior Design methodology borrows from the Waitaki landscape
Nature arrival into the homestead via the atrium sets the scene
Views take in the natural landscape from every angle
Natural materials, textures and patterns of nature are incorporated into the finishings
Photography and artwork that adorn the walls are inspired by nature, captured + crafted by NZ talent
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Both the existing and new extension of the homestead has natural wool insulation
All wooden floors were installed with an acoustic underlay
Plants feature heavily in each space, helping to buffer any loud sounds
Dense 100% natural wool carpets in all bedrooms and in 2 of the 3 living areas
A collection of hand-knotted rugs adorn every room to further absorb sound
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The new extension is wrapped in locally sourced Oamaru Stone and crafted by local stonemasons
The entire farm property is hydro-powered
An on-site potager grows seasonal and organic produce
A strong focus was put on restoring existing and prized furniture elements
Newly purchased wooden furniture elements were bespoke and NZ made
“Willow Parks’ redevelopment was always going to be a legacy project, as we tried to reimagine the future after 140 years as a historic homestead. Jade introduced us to concepts and design criteria that offered a balance of modern day functionality, along with environmental respect, as we rebuilt for the future.
Her knowledge and skillsets are remarkable, and made a challenging project a delight to work on, for all the trades and us as owners.”
Gloria + Ian / Homeowners
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