House on a Rock.

Formed by Nature, Crafted by Hand. This stunning family home is seamlessly integrated into the Port Hills featuring breathtaking views.

Building this architectural home on the Port Hills was an opportunity to create something that truly belonged to its landscape. Designed by architect and owner Ken Powrie, the home is shaped by the contours of the volcanic rock formations that surround it. As Ken describes it, “The identity of the site changes every day, every hour, the wind, rain and mist comes from pretty much 360 degrees, and that's part of the beauty of it.” Our role was to deliver a structure that not only respected these forces but embraced them.

The home is formed from three curved pods that contain the bedrooms, bathrooms and garage, with an open central living space framed by fully glazed walls. A floating timber deck wraps around the exterior, meeting naturally occurring layers of rock uncovered during excavation. The curves of the building and its roofline follow the landscape, sheltering outdoor living from prevailing winds while opening the home to sweeping sea and mountain views. As Ken says, “The forms were essentially drawn from the landscape, the curved roof not only helps it nestle into the hills but is carefully designed for solar gain and protection from the bitter easterly wind.”

Inside, the commitment to organic materials continues. Recycled brick, salvaged after the Christchurch earthquakes, lines the pods to create a sense of warmth and enclosure. Rich rosewood details frame windows and doorways, and meticulous timber craftsmanship allows doors to sit flush, creating seamless surfaces and hidden spaces. Ken explains, “We wanted a materiality that changed with the light, creating warmth, contrast and moments of delight throughout the day.”

For us as builders, the reward was bringing this vision to life, shaping a home that feels embedded in its site while still offering family friendly function. The project was a true collaboration between architecture and construction, delivering a home that evolves with light, weather and daily life. As Ken reflects, “There are hidden elements to the house, you are always finding little moments of joy as you move around.”