Set against the serene expanse of Te Anau’s alpine landscape, this impeccably crafted residence is a celebration of natural materiality, sustainable thinking, and refined architectural detail. Passionate about environmental responsibility, LMA Timber has long championed the use of reclaimed and responsibly sourced hardwoods as an alternative to tropical rainforest timbers. Working with carefully selected Australian suppliers, each recognised for their award-winning commitment to sustainable forestry, LMA Timber provides high performance products that elevate design while reducing environmental impact. Their story began in 2017, inspired by a Grand Designs episode showcasing reclaimed Australian hardwood cladding. A closer look at New Zealand’s market revealed a reliance on high maintenance softwoods, prompting LMA Timber to introduce a superior, durable, and ethically sourced material palette now favoured by architects and builders nationwide.
It is this ethos of longevity and ecological sensitivity that underpins the Te Anau project. Built by Blair Sandford of B Sandford Building Limited, the home stands as a commanding example of modern New Zealand design enriched by the warmth, texture, and enduring qualities of premium Australian hardwoods. Every surface, junction, and custom formed element reflects a level of precision that speaks to the project’s commitment to quality.
At the centre of the architectural narrative is LMA Timber Cladding in 115mm Class 1 Durable Australian Hardwood. Selected for its stability, rich tonal variation, and ability to withstand Fiordland’s demanding climate, the cladding forms a protective skin that ages gracefully while visually anchoring the home to its rugged surroundings. Its horizontal rhythm sharpens the architectural lines, while the depth and grain of the timber soften the home’s contemporary form. Over time, the material will develop a striking patina, ensuring the façade remains both resilient and aesthetically compelling.
Complementing the exterior is 130x19mm Spotted Gum decking, chosen for its durability and sophisticated colour spectrum, deep browns through to gentle greys echoing the lakeside environment. Within the interior, repurposed sections of this decking are refined into slender slats in the WC, forming a sculptural screen that discreetly conceals a doorway to the sauna. It is a moment of quiet ingenuity, emblematic of the project’s material led design philosophy.
Inside, timber continuity becomes a defining motif. Engineered 134mm Spotted Gum flooring grounds the interior, while custom profiled nosings ensure smooth transitions across the home’s unique geometries. The main stairwell, featuring custom laminated Spotted Gum treads and landings, forms a sculptural connective spine where grain direction and proportion converge in a beautifully resolved architectural gesture.
Reflecting on the project, Martin, Director of LMA Timber, notes: “This home is an extraordinary example of what can be achieved when high quality materials are paired with exceptional building expertise. The finish is simply outstanding. We are incredibly proud to see our hardwoods used in a way that showcases both their strength and their natural beauty.”
The Te Anau residence stands as a testament to thoughtful design, expressive timber detailing, and a deep respect for material integrity, an enduring home perfectly attuned to both place and purpose.