A challenging design from Threefold Architecture led to masterful execution from Bagley Construction on this Wānaka family home.

WORDS Kathy Young PHOTOGRAPHY Jamie Cobel

In the breathtaking landscape of Wānaka sits a home that defies convention – brought together thanks to an adventurous homeowner and an architectural designer willing to push the boundaries. Conceived with the purpose of being more than just a family home, this project was envisioned as an opportunity for the homeowner to showcase his talent as a builder.

“I actually said to Bryce to push the boat out a little bit design-wise,” says Hugh Bagley, homeowner as well as director of Bagley Construction, of his initial brief to Bryce Monk, director and architectural designer at Threefold Architecture.

While many would have been deterred by the rather odd 650sqm section, Hugh and Bryce saw opportunity and creativity. “It’s a very funny-shaped section, which would put off a lot of people. There are only really about four or five right angles in the whole of Bryce’s finished design.”

The design process began with a deceptively simple wish-list from Hugh and partner Zoe: three bedrooms, an office, typical bathroom configurations, and a living space that maximised the outstanding Wānaka views – plus high ceilings to accommodate Hugh’s hunting trophies.

But it was a challenging site to fit it all on: it was awkward and angular in shape, and undulating, with limited usable space. There was a need for shelter from the southerly winds and a desire to infuse the heart of the home with sunlight. These challenges became the driving force behind Bryce’s innovative design, incorporating high-level windows and a louvred outdoor area, turning nature’s elements from obstacles into integral components of the design.

“The layout works really well,” Bryce says. “When I proposed the sketch plan, I actually emailed it to Hugh and then rang him straightaway because I wanted to hear his immediate response. And it was a few swear words – in a good way!”

That initial reaction wasn’t surprising. “On plan, it looks really complicated,” Bryce admits. “But Hugh’s definitely the sort of guy who is up for a challenge. We both wanted to use that opportunity to
challenge ourselves.”

The result is what Bryce describes as a “modified pavilion” – a V-shaped segment with unconventional angles that frame the spectacular views. Despite its unusual form, he emphasises, “it’s a layout that would work for 99 per cent of families. It’s not so different in its utility.”

Hugh and Zoe Bagley worked closely with Contour Furniture & Joinery to create this moody, tactile kitchen, featuring stained planked oak veneer, Toitu, by NZ Panels. The company also collaborated on designing the joinery for the media room, bathrooms, stairwell and wardrobes.

The material palette showcases a thoughtful connection to the region. Local Otago stone and cedar create a natural harmony with the landscape. Corten steel frames the horizontal roof forms, which feature stone chip topping – an important detail given that the roof can be seen from the home office above.

The building forms dance across the skyline, integrating the roof seamlessly into the line of the landscape. The angular shapes and unconventional angles defy the traditional, allowing Threefold Architecture’s vision and Bagley Construction’s precision detailing to shine.

Inside, the interior unfolds as a sanctuary of luxury and refinement. Cedar ceilings flow through the living spaces, and textured wall finishes create what Bryce jokingly calls a bit of an urban hunting lodge. The snug, with its warm panelling, exemplifies this concept. “That’s what a snug should be,” Bryce says. “Almost like a cave.”

One of the home’s bold features is the curved wall in the master ensuite but it almost didn’t make it into the final design. “Hugh said, ‘Is it worthwhile?’” Bryce recalls. “I said, ‘Absolutely.’ It curves around to create a striking space for a double shower.”

Other bespoke elements include in-situ concrete work that Hugh particularly enjoyed creating – the exterior fireplace and bench seats in the sunken area around the indoor fireplace.

While Threefold Architecture led the interior concepts, Hugh and Zoe worked closely with Contour Joinery to fine-tune the details. Zoe and Hugh’s collaborative approach to the interiors resulted in bold, dark colours and earthy materials that complement the architecture.

What makes this project notable is the enduring relationship between architectural designer and builder. “Our ongoing working relationship made the job more special than it would have been if they were a fresh client,” Bryce says. “The ability for me to go back and have a wander through with them anytime I like in the future is so much more valuable than the specific architecture.”

This trust flows both ways. “As soon as I set up Bagley Construction back in 2015, I bought a section and built a house and used Threefold Architecture,” Hugh says. “It’s just become a great relationship over the years. If I get clients coming to me wanting to build, I push them towards Bryce. If Bryce has clients looking for a builder, then Bryce will recommend me.”

This home stands as a striking example of how a challenging section can inspire rather than limit creative vision, and showcases the audacious spirit of both the builder and designer.