Dubbed the “Chicest Sheep Station in the World” by the foreign press, Flockhill Homestead is a new luxury guest home project designed in Craigieburn Valley in New Zealand’s South Island, by Christchurch architecture studio Warren and Mahoney.
Flockhill is a working sheep station positioned in the rural region of the Canterbury alpine ranges, minutes away from Castle Hill Village. Modest lodgings of red-roofed cabins and a campground were part of the original offering on the 1500ha sheep station. The dilapidated remains of the historic 1857 homestead are still on the site.
“We had this incredible history of how the site had been inhabited previously – hundreds of years ago – alongside the environmental considerations associated with an alpine environment. We wanted to create something that could provide a sense of safety and retreat from the mountainous elements while still feeling fully immersed in the landscape,” says Jonathan Coote.
The Flockhill Homestead Build
Aotea Electric Canterbury was proud to be part of the team bringing to life the clean and modest design, drawing on modernist principles mixed with references to the original farmhouses.
The remote luxury 800sqm 4-bedroom Homestead project took over 3000 working hours to complete from concept to completion. It was particularly challenging as the build took place around Covid-19 lockdowns.
Flockhill Homestead construction
The Aotea Electric onsite team showed determination and resilience to complete the project despite spending many hours away from their families and friends.
Flockhill site meeting with a view
The attention to detail is next-level with the relaxing vacation experience enhanced with automated controls and state-of-the-art technology, set against the wilderness of magnificent landscapes.
The Homestead is designed to be used in a fluid way, with an almost continuous connection between internal and external spaces. All spaces are arranged in a single linear strip, ensuring the views over Lake Pearson and Sugar Loaf beyond are never lost. Soft architectural lighting creates the perfect scenes overlooking Lake Pearson.
Expansive views abound throughout the luxurious accommodation
With a private chef, guests enjoy a range of chilled fine wines and a selection of top-shelf spirits in the bespoke-designed lounge and sitting rooms. The spoils of hunting trips can be enjoyed from the BBQ in a secluded patio area sheltered from the rugged environment.
The Flockhill luxury experience, at up to $20k/night, has been recognised by the likes of The New York Times and featured in many global luxury stay articles.
“Flockhill proposes a blueprint for modern New Zealand design.”
– The Financial Times
Whilst remote, guests can stay connected to the outside world with WiFi and data connections provided throughout the Homestead, even outside while enjoying the swimming pool and spa.
The den creates a theatre experience like no other with touch-of-a-button scene control via the in-room touchscreen. The blinds close out the mountain ranges, reflecting from Lake Pearson, while activating the surrounding theatre audio system.
Ensuring the experience isn’t compromised, a back-up generator keeps everything running through snowed-filled days and nights, keeping the Homestead warm and functional.
Aotea Electric Services
The Aotea Electric team contributed several services in the Homestead including electrical, lighting, air conditioning, HVAC, automation, data and audiovisual and generator systems. It was a challenging yet rewarding project to undertake and showcased what the specialist Services team can provide.
Electrical installation during Flockhill Homestead construction
Aotea Electric Canterbury was able to provide the latest modern technology solutions this high-end Homestead needed to contribute to its outstanding architectural hilltop presence. It was a fantastic project to be involved in and we look forward to showcasing this project for many years to come.
Flockhill Homestead Photo Gallery
Hover over image and use left/right arrows to view gallery.
Gallery images courtesy of Flockhill. View more: https://www.flockhillnz.com/gallery