Oculus House

The project responds to Queenstown’s exposed climate, particularly prevailing southerly winds, which informed both the orientation and massing of the building. Shelter was the biggest consideration followed by the framing of and connection to the outstanding landscape.

The design positions the house to balance outward-facing views with an inward-looking central courtyard. The courtyard provides a sheltered, year-round space around which the home is organised.A compact square footprint and split-level arrangement accommodate garaging and ancillary spaces discreetly below the main living areas, reducing visual bulk and supporting efficient use of the site. Key views are carefully framed along the primary axis of the house.The house is anchored by a faceted, board-formed concrete spine wall, providing structure, weather protection, and spatial definition. This element also incorporates service functions such as fireplaces, storage, and ventilation.

Oculus House delivers a refined, site-responsive home that balances long-term value, environmental performance, and social wellbeing. A compact, efficient form and durable materials support low maintenance, while passive solar design, thermal mass, and a high-performance envelope reduce energy demand. On-site water management and native planting enhance biodiversity and ecological resilience. The design supports both connection and retreat, with a central courtyard creating a calm, private environment for family life, guests, and a strong relationship to the Queenstown landscape.