River Terrace
Location
Auckland
Professionals involved
Perched along the narrow crest of a gently sloping ridgeline, River Terrace offers a rare convergence of landscape, architecture, and materiality. Surrounded by rolling farmland and rural lifestyle properties, the home overlooks the expansive floodplains and wetlands shaped over millennia by the meandering Wairoa River. Framing uninterrupted views north to the landmark Te Nīkau Pā, the dwelling connects deeply to its environment, drawing inspiration from the natural rhythms and sculpted forms of the river terraces.
The architectural design embraces regenerative principles, working with the land rather than against it. Every element — from the extended wetlands to extensive native and exotic planting — anchors the home within its surroundings. Inside, Marchand’s La Forêt Luxury Oak was chosen for its natural warmth and textural depth, bringing an understated elegance to the interior. The soft, muted tones and subtle grain of La Forêt complement the surrounding landscape, allowing the flooring to blend harmoniously with the home’s architectural lines and the curated palette of stone, timber, and glass.
Thoughtfully planned for adaptability, the layout offers a flexible three-bedroom configuration with a secondary lounge that can transform into a fourth bedroom or dedicated home office. Universal design principles ensure that the dwelling remains accessible and livable for every stage of life, further enhancing its timeless appeal.
The result is a home where architecture, landscape, and materiality are inseparable — a celebration of place, sustainability, and refined luxury. Marchand La Forêt Luxury Oak grounds the design in nature, creating a seamless transition from the expansive views beyond to the crafted interiors within.
