In the rolling green countryside on the outskirts of Auckland, there lies a gem that takes the essence of a classic farmhouse and wraps it in the finest modern threads. This extraordinary residence, crafted by the talented team at Nala Studio Architects and built by NeoBuild, has recently won the prestigious Masterbuild New Zealand 2024 Gold Award as well as the Auckland, Northland, and Coromandel 2024 Regional Category Winner, showcasing the exceptional expertise and design finesse that defines their work.

The home sits proudly on a flat section of land in Coatesville, surrounded by the natural beauty of mature trees and lush forest—a young couple’s dream realised in bricks, timber, and folded metal. What is achieved here is nothing short of spectacular, embracing the rural charm of the location while injecting it with contemporary flair.

A Vision Rooted in Nature and Tradition

The clients came with a simple yet inspiring vision. They wanted a home that would embrace the surrounding landscape, offering sweeping views of the native bush and capturing the essence of a traditional farmhouse, but with a modern twist. This brief, rooted in the love for nature and nostalgia, became the driving force behind a design that is now celebrated as one of the finest examples of residential architecture in the region.

The result? A dwelling that celebrates its surroundings, creating a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors while exuding warmth, elegance, and a certain rusticity that harks back to simpler times.

Designing the Farmhouse of the Future

Nala Studio Architects took this vision and elevated it to an art form, expertly blending the timeless charm of a farmhouse with sleek, modern design elements. The centrepiece of this home is its spacious, open-plan living area, crowned with a sloped rafter ceiling that instantly evokes the feeling of a grand barn. Vertical timber battens rise majestically, adding height and drama to the space, while the folded metal roof echoes the same clean lines, giving the entire structure a sophisticated edge.

This central living area isn’t just a room; it's an invitation to gather, to celebrate, and to bask in the beauty of life. The expansive space flows effortlessly out onto a north-west-facing deck, where sunlight dances through the branches of native trees and the air is rich with the scent of the forest. It’s a space that blurs the lines between inside and out, creating a harmonious environment that feels as though it was always meant to be there.

Crafting a Journey of Discovery

At Nala Studio Architects, they understand that a home is more than just a building; it's an experience, a journey. This philosophy is brought to life from the moment you arrive at the property. As you step from the driveway into a welcoming courtyard, the house begins to reveal its story, leading you to the front door and, beyond it, a world of light, texture, and breathtaking views.

The entrance is thoughtfully designed, featuring a cosy nook with bench seating that whispers, "Come in, relax, stay a while." To the left, the open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area stretch out, bathed in natural light, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape at every turn. Vertical fins and timber battens gently define the spaces, allowing light to filter through and creating a sense of openness and freedom that is both liberating and grounding.

And then there’s the pièce de résistance—a large picture window that frames the bush beyond, drawing the eye and the soul outwards. It’s a moment of pure architectural magic, where design and nature come together in perfect harmony.

A Home Built for Living, Loving, and Dreaming

Covering approximately 280 square metres, this four-bedroom residence is as practical as it is beautiful. It features a dedicated home office/study, two and a half bathrooms, and a double garage—everything a modern family could wish for. The master bedroom, designed to capture the first rays of morning sun, boasts an ensuite bathroom and a walk-in wardrobe, offering a sanctuary that feels like a retreat.

But what truly sets this home apart is the way it honours its surroundings. Every window, every door, every detail has been meticulously crafted to bring the outside in, to celebrate the lush greenery, and to offer a constant reminder of the beauty that exists just beyond the walls.

It’s a home where you can entertain friends on a summer’s evening, the laughter echoing through the rafters as the sun sets behind the trees. It’s a home where you can wake up to the sound of birdsong and sip your morning coffee as the mist rises off the land. It’s a home that feels like it’s always been there, waiting for the right people to come along and fill it with life.

Nala Studio Architects: Where Vision Meets Excellence

Winning the Masterbuild New Zealand 2024 Gold Award and the Auckland, Northland, and Coromandel 2024 Regional Category Winner is a testament to the skill, passion, and dedication of the team at Neobuild & Nala Studio Architects. They took a dream and turned it into reality, creating a home that is not only beautiful but also profoundly connected to its environment. This Coatesville farmhouse stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when you blend traditional inspiration with modern sensibility, and when you let nature be your guide.

In a world where architecture often feels disconnected from its surroundings, this project reminds us of the power of thoughtful design and the magic that happens when you build with heart.