Hawks Nest Residence – Forestlines Rise, Ben Lomond, New Zealand 🇳🇿

Name: Hawks Nest
Bedrooms: 5
Bathrooms: 6
Size: 7,534 sq. ft.
Lot: 5.44 acres
Built: 2021

Perched high above Lake Wakatipu, with uninterrupted views of Walter and Cecil Peaks, Hawk’s Nest is a striking mountain retreat designed to blend seamlessly with its dramatic alpine setting. Commissioned as a legacy property for a family seeking a resort-like experience at home, the residence balances rugged natural materials with contemporary design. The architectural design delivers a series of intersecting gable forms that stretch across the hillside, allowing for both panoramic lake views and an abundance of northern sunlight. Floor-to-ceiling glazing frames the scenery, while robust stone walls, exposed timber beams, and expansive outdoor living areas create a luxurious yet grounded mountain aesthetic.

Inside, the home offers a series of carefully curated spaces designed for both grand entertaining and private retreat. An impressive entry hall, anchored by stone walls and an oversized timber door, leads to a light-filled foyer where a sculptural Flos pendant accentuates the triple-height volume and draws the eye toward the lake beyond. The expansive living, dining, and kitchen areas, framed by substantial stone fireplaces, flow seamlessly to outdoor terraces, featuring alfresco dining, a fully equipped kitchen, and open wood fireplaces for year-round enjoyment. Thoughtful accommodations cater to multigenerational living, with multiple guest suites, and an adjoining studio for a live-in caretaker. A dedicated wellness area at the eastern end of the home captures the morning sun, offering a serene space for yoga, a sauna, and a hot tub overlooking the Remarkables. Below, an underground wine cellar and plush bar provide a sophisticated retreat for evening gatherings.

Named ‘Hawk’s Nest’ after the striking hawk sculpture commissioned to watch over the property, this residence is not just a holiday escape, but a legacy home built to stand the test of time. Constructing this home was a feat of innovation with Bayshore Builders and Sue Nauman Design delivered a residence that exceeded expectations. The result is a home that feels deeply connected to its environment, with craftsmanship and materiality that reflect the strength of the alpine landscape. From its alpine architecture to its resort-like amenities, this Queenstown masterpiece embodies the essence of modern mountain living, seamlessly merging luxury with the untamed natural beauty of New Zealand.