Lake Ridge Townhouses, Hamilton

High quality, high density townhouses, have not been common in the Hamilton context, but as Hamilton Lake views, and inner city living increase demand, such housing is urgently needed. The townhouses at Lake Ridge, successfully take this demand on, creating a unique design solution to enhance the land aspect at the northern end of the lake expanse. The site faces south over Hamilton Lake, with prevailing winds coming in from the southwest. This created the difficulty of maximising the views, while gaining optimal sunlight, views and privacy, but avoiding the often harsh and cold wind. Originality of design thinking, has superceeded each of these issues. Internal spaces are open and spacious, with glass louvres and glazed spaces maximising daylight on two levels. The use of the glazing acts as a control and maximisation of the expansive lake vista. Three bedrooms, two living rooms, two bathrooms and a study, contained in a 250square metre configuration, work well around a semi enclosed central courtyard. A cohesion of low maintenance, efficient planning and high quality materials, establishes these homes as leaders in the high density market. NZIA Branch Award for Architecture, 2005.