Queenstown House

Set against the dramatic landscape of Lake Wakatipu, this holiday home by Mason & Wales Architects draws on the traditional building language of Central Otago. Pitched roofs and schist-clad forms reference the region’s stone cottages and utilitarian barns, reinterpreted on a more expansive scale. The offshore clients wanted to embrace the extraordinary setting while creating generous spaces for extended family to gather, resulting in a series of gabled schist forms connected by glazed pavilions, with separate wings for the owners and guests.

With 360-degree views across the lake and surrounding mountains, the landscape became a defining influence on the interiors. Trinity Interior Design was commissioned to reflect the natural beauty and materiality of the setting while complementing the architecture. The scope encompassed the complete interior fitout, including finishes, lighting, bespoke cabinetry, bathrooms, window treatments and furniture, with close coordination across the offshore clients, architect, build team and cabinetmakers.

The interior palette takes its cues from the surrounding landscape, combining natural hues, fibres and tactile materials. Baltic grey marble and oak flooring provide a considered foundation, balancing refined detailing with the practical requirements of a home designed for family, grandchildren and pets. Throughout, the interiors are understated and textural, allowing the architecture and expansive views to remain the focus.

The result is a refined yet relaxed interior that feels deeply connected to its Central Otago setting. Every element has been carefully considered to complement the architecture, frame the remarkable landscape and create a welcoming retreat for the clients and their extended family.

Schist-clad gabled exterior set against the Remarkables, Queenstown House, Central Otago
Schist gable and lit glazed pavilion at dusk, with stone terrace and timber bench, Queenstown House, Lake Wakatipu
Feature bar with glazed dark green zellige Moroccan tile splashback and dark oak joinery, Queenstown House
From a builder’s perspective, we couldn’t have wanted more as Trinity provided a full schedule of materials and finishes plus also produced construction details when required to keep pace with work on-site.
Jeremy Murray-Orr, Triple Star Management
Dining table and sofa framed by floor-to-ceiling glazing over Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown House
Kitchen with dark timber island, skylights and courtyard outlook, Queenstown House
Entry hall with schist wall, oak lining, custom rustic block bench seat and polished concrete floor, Queenstown House
Marble-lined powder room with mirrored cabinets and brass wall sconces, Queenstown House
Bathroom with oak lining, timber louvred shutters and bronze, burgundy tiling, Queenstown House
Marble bathroom with walk-in shower and timber louvred shutters, Queenstown House, Queenstown
Main bedroom with panelled upholstered headboard and glass pendant lighting, Queenstown House
The team was friendly and attentive as they brought their extensive talent and experience including logistical expertise to our project. We couldn’t be happier with the end result and thoroughly enjoyed the whole process. Thanks Team Trinity.
Kris and Philip, Clients
Guest bedroom with oak-lined wall, bronze reading lights and wool check armchair, Queenstown House
Guest bedroom with oak-lined wall, brass reading lights and wool check cushions, Bedroom beneath the gable with oak lining and vaulted ceiling, Queenstown House, Central Otago
Built-in bunk room in oak with timber ladder and checked bedding, Queenstown House
Bedroom with channel-tufted headboard and oak bedside table, Queenstown House
Living room fireplace set into a schist chimney with stacked firewood, Queenstown House
Queenstown House
Kitchen with black double island, skylight, stools and glazing to Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown House
Sheltered outdoor terrace with woven lounge furniture and metal-clad walls and local schist, maple tree, Queenstown House
Schist elevation with firewood store and native planting, the Remarkables beyond, Queenstown House
Covered terrace at dusk looking through to the lit dining room and lake, Queenstown House
Schist gable lit from within at dusk with mountain backdrop, Queenstown House, Lake Wakatipu
Queenstown House