70 | Sitting snug in a rugged landscape Ben Hudson Architects share a passion for imaginative architecture that is well-constructed and sits comfortably in its environment. ARCHITECTURE Ben Hudson Architects T T Russell Fredric Ben Hudson Architects brings highly creative and timeless architecture to its clients and the landscape their homes are set in. The Queenstown-based practice is coowned by Ben Hudson and John Mathieson, who together offer worlds of experience in tandem with their complementary skills. A graduate from the Oxford School of Architecture, Ben gained 23 years’ experience at top practices in the United Kingdom and in Auckland before launching Ben Hudson Architects in 2019. Prior to starting the business, Ben was studio manager and associate architect at Warren and Mahoney’s Queenstown office where he worked for 10 years. He is also an active member of the New Zealand Institute of Architects Southern Branch Committee. Although Europe has led the way in some aspects of architecture such as sustainability, New Zealand is catching up “fairly fast”, he says. “There are certainly influences and knowledge that I can call on from working in the UK.” John has a wealth of experience in documenting and running projects, Ben says. “His construction knowledge is very good; that’s part of the reason why we set up together. “His meticulous method of working ensures a clear and consistent approach to everything we do, and he applies thought and invention to the finer detail that can make the difference between good design and great design.” Ben and John have a shared interest in producing bespoke, imaginative architecture that is well detailed, well-constructed and sits comfortably in its environment. “Whenever we look at a design, we are designing for the context that it’s in.” The significance of this synergy is showcased in Ben Hudson Architecture’s portfolio of striking projects, one of which is a Lake Hayes residence designed for a family, with construction led by The Builders, a local company that is highly trusted by Ben and John. Set into a sloped site, it has a low profile, while the view both from inside and outside is simply stunning, Ben says. “You get glimpses of the lake as you approach the site off the road, but once you enter the house the views just open up to the lake. “To the left, you’ve got views of the Remarkables and various peaks; it obviously changes throughout the year as well [with] snow on the mountains. “It really feels like you’re in a quite a special place.” Covering two levels, the house and garage has a floor area of 430 square metres and incorporates simple, robust, low maintenance materials comprising coloured steel and stone that aim to define mass, scale and proportion. “The entry elevation explores Central Otago’s strong tradition of schist stone, contrasting with the glazed, lake facing façade which is more permeable and enables uninterrupted views.” In keeping with the environment, the interior also encapsulates a sense of timelessness through a warm but neutral material palette, including a full-height fireplace clad in blackened steel and saw marked oak panelling, balanced with a colour scheme of warm white walls and natural timber veneer cabinetry. This is complemented by lighter-toned timber flooring, while high windows at the peak of the monopitch draws in additional light which filters around the upper level of the lounge, kitchen and dining area. Although the design and its various elements are not ostentatious, the level and variety of detail, along with its setting and the architectural sensitivity to it is impressive. “You get glimpses of the lake as you approach the site off the road, but once you enter the house the views just open up to the lake.”
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