JACK HOME

Ōtautahi - Christchurch

Nestled into the hillside of Sumner, a coastal suburb on the east coast, the Jack Home was designed to embrace its sun-soaked setting while treading lightly on the land. With steep terrain and a narrow rectangular footprint, the site posed a challenge—but also an opportunity. The result is a home that feels both grounded and weightless, with a floating skeletal frame that maximises views while minimising impact on the landscape.

The architecture prioritises simplicity and serenity, from an early morning cup of tea in the sunny nook to evenings by the fire with city lights twinkling in the distance. Cedar cladding brings natural warmth throughout, enhancing the home’s relaxed, welcoming feel.

A deep sense of connection to place guided the design philosophy. This narrative is expressed most clearly in the large movable glass wall—designed to recess fully into a hidden pocket—blurring the boundary between interior and exterior. It’s this seamless transition that keeps the experience of the ocean, the hillside, and the surrounding natural world ever-present.

Materials were selected with honesty and purpose, reinforcing the home’s respect for its setting. The Jack Home is a considered response to a complex site—an elegant, uncomplicated retreat nestled in an outstanding part of our country.