Pigeon Bay Retreat

A Strong Sense of Belonging

Set in striking harmony within its awe-inspiring landscape, this award-winning home has perfected its place within the environment, evoking a strong sense of belonging. Exquisitely composed with natural materials and innovative modern design principles, we love the feeling of calm sophistication and timeless beauty.

Located along the Banks Peninsula in the dramatic volcanic landscape of New Zealand’s South Island, this award-winning home is nestled into a rocky escarpment in a sheltered cove with breathtaking views of the coast. Conceived and designed by Auckland-based architect Andrew Patterson, the home is constructed largely from locally quarried stone, steel and glass with a poured concrete floor and an earth turfed roof.

Accessible only by helicopter or 4-wheel-drive vehicle, the location is remote and secluded and was designed as a romantic hideaway for two. The horizontal silhouette is seamlessly integrated into the land in perfect relationship to the natural environment and consists of just three irregularly shaped rooms. The open plan layout includes the main living area with a split level separation between the bedroom area with walls of glass overlooking the coast. The sleek modern kitchen is off to the side and the cave like bathroom at the back features a deep free standing tub with a view out to the terrace.

The interlocking geometric design corresponds to both views of the bay and distant views out to Rocky Spire appearing as if you are floating on the open sea. The dramatic rock, concrete and sleek modernism are softened by a selection of soft, neutral textiles and animal hides and contemporary furnishings including a suspended Eero Aarnio Bubble chair for taking in the views and lounging in front of the fire. The outdoor lounge is positioned for maximum effect with a fireplace and spa pool to complete the romantic tone. 

Winner of the 2014 Urbis Award for Best House and Home of the Year finalist from HOME Magazine, the house is also eco-friendly and incorporated an extensive reforestation and re-vegetation effort. 

ADDITIONAL FEATURES 

Welcome basket, daily housekeeping (with optional laundry services), Wifi throughout, digital cable TV, heated floors. Optional services include: Touring and concierge services, private chef and catering, spa and massage services, personal trainer, airport transfers. Mountain bikes for guest use. Private helipad access.

 

AROUND 

Bordered in the west by the snowcapped Southern Alps and in the east by the Pacific Ocean, the Canterbury region of New Zealand’s South Island is a vast territory of grassy plains, sparkling lakes and snow-capped mountains. Just over an hour south of Christchurch, the area is famed for its spectacular landscapes and thrilling natural wonders. Still recovering from two large earthquakes, Christchurch is a vibrant city with a lively art scene, extensive botanic gardens and a playground for urban and outdoor adventure. A few hours west is Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and Tasman Glacier, the highest peak on the island.  

LOCATION 

Pigeon Bay, New Zealand. Nearest Airport: Christchurch (78 km)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: September through May with year-round appeal