Hidden Island Retreat, by Mason & Wales Architects, is a striking architectural achievement set within the rugged beauty of Jack鈥檚 Point Preserve, just 20 minutes from Queenstown, New Zealand. The expansive residence is carefully integrated into the landscape, with schist stone walls, dark bronze steel cladding, and extensive glazing that frame panoramic views of The Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu. The home鈥檚 two distinct structures are connected by a glass-walled entry gallery, allowing natural light to filter through while maintaining privacy. Built to harmonize with its surroundings, the residence is positioned along the natural ridgeline, employing a low-profile roofline and warm, earthy materials to complement the alpine environment.
- Name: Hidden Island Retreat
- Bedrooms: 5
- Bathrooms: 5
- Size: 8,611 sq. ft.
- Lot: 3.14 acres
- Built: 2019
Perched on a rugged hillside within Jack鈥檚 Point Preserve, Hidden Island Retreat is a masterful architectural achievement that blends seamlessly into one of New Zealand鈥檚 most breathtaking landscapes. Designed by Mason & Wales Architects and built by Triple Star, this 800m虏 residence is carefully set into the terrain, offering panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables mountain range, and the surrounding alpine grasslands. The home鈥檚 design responds directly to its environment, with two distinct structures connected by a glass-walled entry gallery. Clad in local schist, cedar, and dark bronze steel, the exterior is composed of recessive hues that allow the building to complement rather than compete with its dramatic surroundings. Expansive glazing on the western elevation maximizes views while drawing natural light deep into the interior.
Inside, the residence balances warmth and modernity with natural materials such as solid American oak, bluestone flooring, and schist-clad fireplaces. Five en-suite bedrooms and multiple living spaces are arranged to offer both privacy and connection, while a carefully considered floor plan ensures year-round comfort despite Queenstown鈥檚 variable climate. A ground-source heating system, photovoltaics, and a high-performance thermal envelope contribute to the home鈥檚 energy efficiency, allowing for a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature. Outdoor spaces are equally well-integrated, with expansive terraces, a sunroom, and a sheltered hot tub area designed to take advantage of the site鈥檚 sunlight while providing protection from prevailing winds.
The home鈥檚 setting demanded a thoughtful approach to both construction and landscaping. Excavating solid rock to create the foundation was a significant engineering feat, while a ballast roof, laden with gravel, enhances thermal mass and visually connects the structure to the hillside. A sculptural stone bridge spans an existing wetland stream, leading to a reflective pond that makes the residence appear to float above the water from select vantage points. This striking retreat is more than a residence; it is a carefully considered response to one of the world鈥檚 most sought-after landscapes, offering an unparalleled balance of design, craftsmanship, and environmental sensitivity.
- Architect: Mason & Wales Architects
- Builder: Triplestar Project Management
- Photography: Jamie Cobel, Simon Devitt
- Location: 7 Hidden Island Road, Jacks Point 9371, New Zealand
