The project began on a bare paddock, with Tracey and John living in a modest modular home on their small farm. From our very first meeting, they were incredibly welcoming, and I sensed immediately that this project was destined to be something truly special. The future building site occupied a long, narrow hill, prominently positioned to capture sweeping, majestic views of the Rangitahi Peninsula and the harbour at Raglan.

Rubixarc designed this home with great care and attentiveness, being deeply in tune with Tracey and John’s needs and desires. Tracey envisioned a warm, energy-efficient home that would maximize the stunning sea views while requiring low-maintenance cladding. The design emphasized seamless indoor-outdoor living, with all indoor spaces opening onto a spacious deck featuring a sheltered, user-friendly outdoor area. This covered space was thoughtfully designed to be enclosed when needed, protecting against the challenging West Coast Waikato weather. The swimming pool became a notable feature, planned to be installed first due to difficult access, sparking lively conversations. Key elements for the home included a grand, inviting fireplace, a practical mudroom, and a dedicated men's cave, which was a must-have for John.

Both Tracey and John loved the inviting warmth of timber textures. They chose a birch plywood finish to create a home that felt spacious yet deeply cozy and comfortable—the emphasis was on striking a perfect balance between openness and intimacy.

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The build took about a year, moving smoothly according to plan. John played an active role throughout the construction process, working alongside Donald, and together they formed a fantastic team. The project not only realized Tracey and John's vision but also perfectly integrated the home into its spectacular natural surroundings, creating a truly harmonious and inviting place to live.

This seamless collaboration with Rubixarc ensured that the home was a true reflection of their lifestyle and values, blending thoughtful design with practical functionality.