A Christchurch architectural firm with a Southern Lakes focus is developing a reputation for creating bespoke permanent and holiday homes in synch with both the environment and clients’ lifestyles.

Allfrey + South Architects director Craig South says with summer and early autumn comes the Kiwi passion for taking to the beach, camping or getting away to a family bach or crib.

“This past summer was no different, everyone does it their own way. Many people will have made a beeline to favourite places and time-honoured holiday retreats.”

He says holiday accommodation itself can make a big difference to the overall experience.

“From an architect’s perspective a holiday home ought to feel different to one’s everyday home yet still support individual lifestyle needs. A good example of this, in our own practice, is an award-winning family bach we designed at Hanmer Springs. It includes several sun-soaked buildings that take in the views and are drawn together around a recessed patio and timber decks. The design allows for privacy while creating places to socialise and is set to provide a legacy for the family.”

Craig believes a great holiday home will seamlessly fit with its environment and location.

While sea views, sliders and decks are ideal for a beach bach priorities for an alpine crib would more likely include a drying room and an open fire.”

He says a well-designed Kiwi holiday home will be treasured across the generations.

“It’s a special place for sharing experiences and making precious memories, the kind of place where friends will come and set up a tent on the lawn and relax on the deck while children run around outside.”