Rustic Revolve
(Penthouse, Queenstown)
Welcome to a story about transforming a 1980s Queenstown penthouse into a modern retreat with alpine character. This penthouse covers 240m² (approximately 787 sq ft) near Lake Wakatipu. The renovation team combined rustic timber details with industrial finishes over six months. Below is a detailed account of the project’s progress and outcomes.
Rustic Revolve
This renovation demonstrates how a penthouse in an alpine setting can mix rustic timber, sturdy stone, and modern industry-inspired features. The finished penthouse stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful material selection and well-planned space usage. The completed space provides a warm, functional haven for rest and remote work, while highlighting the natural splendor of Queenstown.
- Location: Lake Wakatipu Waterfront, Queenstown
- Property Type: 240m² penthouse (787 sq ft)
- Design Style: Alpine-industrial fusion
- Renovation Timeline: 6 months
- Key Partners: Heritage timber specialists, seismic engineers
The property sits in a mountainous region, so the design had to tackle low temperatures, strong winds, and occasional seismic activity. The result is a comfortable, high-end living space that celebrates the local landscape.
Client Background & Pain Points
An Australian couple, both involved in tech, wanted a place that could serve as a luxury holiday home and a remote workspace. They had three main concerns:
- Dated Layout: Small rooms blocked views of the surrounding lake and mountains.
- Thermal Inefficiency: Single-glazed windows did not keep out the cold.
- Acoustic Limitations: Nearby hotel activities caused unwanted noise, affecting peace and productivity.
They envisioned an open interior that took advantage of the penthouse’s panoramic potential.
Renovation Plan & Design Approach
Spatial Reconfiguration
- Removed Interior Walls: The team cleared existing partitions to create an extended 14-meter sightline from the kitchen to the lake-facing terrace. This opened up the living and dining zones.
- Retractable Glass Partitions: These allow a flexible boundary between living areas and the workspace, ensuring privacy for work while still letting in natural light.
Material Strategy
- Heritage Timber: Craftspeople salvaged Otago schist stone and recycled rimu beams, producing a blend of natural textures.
- Industrial Accents: Blackened steel frames and a copper-clad kitchen island contrasted with the timber surfaces.
- Climate Adaptations: Triple-glazed skylights with UV-filtering coatings improve insulation and reduce glare.
Tech Integration
- Motorized Blinds: Automated shades respond to sunrise and sunset for optimum lighting.
- Underfloor Heating: Linked to a geothermal system, it helps maintain cozy floors, especially during colder months.
- Discreet Charging Stations: Concealed power outlets in window sills reduce cable clutter while supporting daily tech needs.
Execution & Challenges Faced
Structural Reinforcement
Seismic activity in this region mandated steel cross-bracing to protect the structure. This requirement increased the budget by 12%. Although unplanned, it was important for compliance and safety.Material Sourcing
The project faced an 8-week delay acquiring locally sourced schist stone. The owners insisted on regional materials, so the team chose to wait for higher quality that aligns with the local style.Weather Constraints
Harsh winters limited exterior tasks, causing the crew to schedule outside work in short windows of good weather. This required careful coordination to avoid further delays.
Key Highlights & Features
| Rustic Elements | Industrial Innovations |
|---|---|
| Exposed schist feature wall | Motorized skylight system |
| Hand-adzed rimu ceiling beams | Copper-clad thermal chimney |
| Native fern greenwall | Steel-mesh room dividers |
| Stone hearth fireplace | Hidden projector screen within a beam |
Functional Upgrades
- Attic Conversion: Turned into a cedar-lined sauna and spa suite for relaxation.
- Dual-Aspect Workspace: Positioned to capture both lake and mountain views, improving mood and productivity.
- Retractable Awning: Protects the terrace during windy or snowy days, giving the homeowners a usable outdoor area year-round.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Cost (NZD) | % of Total |
|---|---|---|
| Structural upgrades | 285,000 | 38% |
| Glazing systems | 175,000 | 23% |
| Interior finishes | 150,000 | 20% |
| Smart systems | 85,000 | 11% |
| Landscape integration | 55,000 | 7% |
| Total | 750,000 | – |
Note: These figures exclude furniture and any art collection.
Spending Distribution Chart
- Structural Upgrades: 38%
- Glazing Systems: 23%
- Interior Finishes: 20%
- Smart Systems: 11%
- Landscape Integration: 7%
Structural work and glazing took the largest portion of the budget due to local codes and the alpine environment. These improvements help maintain a stable and energy-efficient interior.