Nestled into the rocky, sloping terrain above Lake Hayes in Queenstown, the Lake Hayes House by Ben Hudson Architects is a contemporary home that thoughtfully merges with its environment. Spanning two levels, the design is a study in contrasts—offering both solidity and lightness, privacy and openness.

From the street, the house presents as a low-lying, stone-clad form, evoking the timeless character of stone-walled hidden gardens. Crafted with traditional mortared stone, the façade anchors the home firmly to its site, providing privacy and protection for its owners. Beyond this solid exterior, the interior unfolds into light-filled spaces that open to panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, with expansive glazing creating the sensation of floating above the lake.

Glazed clerestory windows peek above the stone walls, inviting natural light and framing views of the treetops and distant hills. From the street, the home appears as a single-story structure, with the main living areas and master bedroom located on the upper level. These spaces flow seamlessly to an outdoor terrace with a wood fire, offering a tranquil spot to take in the lake views.

The lower level accommodates children’s bedrooms, a study, and family spaces, all connected by a sheltered timber deck. The use of board-finished concrete here reinforces the sense of the home being grounded into the hillside.

Inside, the open-plan layout connects the kitchen, dining, and living spaces, tied together by timber joinery. The kitchen opens on to a sunlit east-facing courtyard, perfect for a morning coffee, with stone steps leading to a kitchen garden and a secluded courtyard tucked behind the stone wall.

A pitched metal and glass structure sits atop the stone base, blending contemporary design with timeless materials. While the interiors appear to hover above the landscape, the exterior maintains a grounded connection to the natural surroundings.

Designed to be lived in, this is a home that combines functionality with elegance. Equal consideration has been given to practical spaces for muddy boots and warm, inviting areas for entertaining. The Lake Hayes House is a place of balance, offering its owners a sanctuary that respects and celebrates the beauty of its setting.