Bob’s Cove
in progress complete
Project Details
Nestled in the stunning Bob's Cove, Queenstown, this elegant gable house features a simple yet refined design that focuses on the materials and thermal performance in an extremely difficult location where winter sun is non-existent. It includes a cozy loft mezzanine and two separate single-bedroom pods, perfect for accommodating family and friends.
Year: 2025
Size: 6.0 x 15.0 m (with two additional 6.0 x 6.0 m pods)
Architect: Charlotte Muschamp at Alki Design www.alkidesign.co.nz
Project Brief
The client wanted to finally have a design that was going to be within reach of the budget and be a warm, healthy and beautiful forever home.
Keep the house warm and dry during winter where Bob’s Cove receives very little sun and can stay very wet for 4-6 months.
A main house with separate single bedroom and bathroom buildings for visitors and family
Low maintenance and highly durable materials that reduce ongoing costs of ownership and will survive in harsh environments
Project Details
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![StrawSIPS Wall System]()
StrawSIPS Wall System
The design was based around our modular panel system. 31 panels totallng 59m2, utilising all of our diferent panel types. The 8 degree roof pitch is built into the panels.
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Yakisugi Charred Cladding
Yakisugi is a traditional Japanese method of charring wood to create durable, striking cladding. The burnt surface forms a protective carbon layer that resists weather, insects, and decay, extending its lifespan without chemicals. Its deep black tones and natural grain add unique visual appeal. Yakisugi cladding is low-maintenance, lightweight, sustainable, and eco-friendly, making it ideal for durable, energy-efficient, and healthy homes.
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Timber Windows and Doors
Recycled timber windows and doors were used. The doors are retro-fitted double glazed doors with native NZ timber frames which had been removed from an old house. With a little love they will perform better than aluminium jonery. The window was a recycled, but unused, timber frame window from Eurotech in Dunedin.
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![Clay Plaster strawbale]()
Clay plaster Interior
The StrawSIPs walls in the living area are clay plastered to provide a healthy, comfortable living environment. The thermal mass of the clay helps to regulate temperature, and the humidity regulting properties ensure comfortable and healthy air all year round.
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Terralana Wool Insulation
Terralana wool blend batt insulation was used in the floor and roof to create an extremely warm insulation around the entire building. 280mm of insulation in the floor (R6.4) and 380mm in the roof (R9.6) combine perfectly with the 400mm straw walls (R6.2).
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IBS Eurowall Woodfibre Board Sheathing
A woodfibre board to be used as an exterior roof sheathing and RAB (rigid air barrier). Moisture-resistant, vapour permeable and windproof. With a low resistance to water vapour (similar to the StrawSIPS) moisture within the wall structure can easily escape to the exterior of the building without risking condensation and mould growth.
