Mapua, Tasman - 2006

Natural lines add beauty and appeal

This outstanding architecturally designed home in Ruby Bay, Nelson has a curved roof and a soft organic shape which helps the house to blend beautifully into its location.

The house has a large central work area with high ceilings and open trusses, handmade from Douglas-Fir. The ceiling line is reflected outside the building with large, curved, galvanised steel frames covering a large deck. From the deck, it’s just a few steps to the sea. At the rear of the house is the master bedroom with ensuite, and a large living space which all have water views.

The open plan designer kitchen is an entertainer’s delight. Practical elements such as two sink areas, gas hobs and dual wall ovens make it perfect for preparing dinner for a crowd.  The high curved ceilings in the kitchen extend through the dining area out to a spacious deck.

Steps on either side of the deck provide easy access to the lawn and down to the beach.

Back inside, large glass walls reflect light and add space to an expansive study area.
The front of the house has been designed as a guest wing with two bedrooms and a separate bathroom.

The double garage, facing the road, has extensive storage.

“Our architect recommended Foothold Development as a professional and reliable building company. After viewing some of their previous work we could see they had the skills and expertise to help realise our vision.

Before commencing building we were confident that all aspects of their tender and pricing process had been covered and that we were going to get value for money and have a clear picture of our expenditure month by month. This process meant that we did not run over budget at all.

We had very definite ideas of what we wanted. The site was difficult because it was long and narrow, low lying and close to the sea. This meant the site had to be built up but we were adamant that  the finished look should not make the house appear elevated.  Foothold completely grasped our vision and Mick and Alistair fully engaged with the subcontractors to ensure that they also shared our ideas making the entire process much easier. Foothold dealt very efficiently with the council on unforeseen issues, some of which were potentially difficult.

We were very pleased with the superior standards Mick and Alastair demanded of their own team and subcontractors, and have since recommended Foothold Developments to others. Their follow-up on the few small problems that have arisen has been excellent.

On completion our house was exactly what we  wanted, a distinctive but unpretentious house. We were delighted to win a gold medal in the Master Builders House of the Year in 2006, a fitting tribute to the class act of the Foothold Development team”.  

Adrienne Taylor - Mapua, Tasman