Haven in the Hills: A Corten Steel Sanctuary in the Port Hills
Tucked away in the breathtaking Port Hills of Christchurch, "Haven in the Hills" is a project that truly captures the essence of Aotearoa’s natural beauty. This project is a perfect blend of art and landscape, with corten steel taking center stage, bringing a rugged yet refined Kiwi charm to this stunning hillside retreat.
A Warm Kiwi Welcome: The Corten Steel Letterbox
As you meander up the driveway, the first thing that greets you is the corten steel letterbox—a standout feature that’s as much about style as it is about substance. It’s not just a spot for the postie to drop off the mail; it’s a piece of art in its own right. The front panel is adorned with a ponga fern design, a nod to one of our nation’s most iconic symbols. The fern motif, delicately cut into the steel, gives the letterbox a uniquely Kiwi vibe. The stainless steel numbers shine bright against the earthy tones of the corten, ensuring this beauty is both practical and eye-catching. Set on a tidy bed of white gravel, this letterbox is the perfect welcome to a home that’s all about style and sophistication with a distinctly New Zealand twist.
A Statement on the Fence: The Tree of Life
Dominating the front fence is a stunning piece of corten steel art—a majestic Tree of Life. This intricate design is more than just an embellishment; it’s a powerful symbol of growth, strength, and connection to the earth. The rich, rusted tones of the corten steel pop beautifully against the dark timber fence, creating a striking contrast that’s hard to miss. This piece serves as a focal point for the property, inviting passersby to pause and admire the craftsmanship. The Tree of Life is not just art—it’s a reflection of the harmony between the home and the natural world surrounding it.
Water Features That Calm and Inspire
The journey through "Haven in the Hills" continues with our corten steel water features. Near the front entranceway, a tall, square-shaped water feature makes a bold statement. Its robust form is softened by the smooth flow of water down its surface, creating a serene and calming ambiance that welcomes guests as they arrive.
In the backyard, there’s a cylindrical water feature that’s pure magic. With intricate cutouts of birds and branches, this piece doesn’t just sit there—it interacts with the light and water to create a constantly shifting display of shadows and reflections. It’s like having a slice of Kiwi bush right there in your own garden, with the birds seeming to flit in and out of the design as the day goes by.
Lighting the Way: Solar-Powered Light Bollards
As dusk falls over the Port Hills, the corten steel light bollards begin to work their magic, casting a warm, inviting glow across the deck. These bollards, adorned with the same birds and branches cutouts, are more than just functional—they bring a bit of that good old Kiwi ingenuity into play. Powered by solar LED lights, they don’t just light the way; they create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for an evening BBQ or a quiet moment under the stars. The way the light dances through the cutouts adds a touch of enchantment to the night, making the outdoor space feel truly special.
Art in the Outdoors: Corten Steel Wall Art
No Kiwi home is complete without a bit of art, and "Haven in the Hills" is no exception. The corten steel wall art brings a touch of the wild to the outdoor spaces. One piece features a majestic deer, grazing peacefully, while another captures the sway of native grasses in the breeze. These pieces aren’t just for show—they’re a celebration of the beauty and tranquility of New Zealand’s natural environment, right in your own backyard.
Functional Beauty: The Pathway Gates
Finally, to tie it all together, corten steel pathway gates have been installed on each side of the house, connecting the entranceway to the back section. These gates aren’t just about keeping the kids in and the sheep out—they’re beautifully crafted with intricate cutout designs that echo the organic forms of the surrounding landscape. The patterns in the gates flow effortlessly with the rest of the design, making these gates not just a practical feature, but a work of art in their own right.
Conclusion
"Haven in the Hills" isn’t just another landscaping project; it’s a true celebration of what makes New Zealand special. Through the use of corten steel, we’ve created a space that’s rugged yet refined, simple yet sophisticated—just like the Kiwi spirit. Each element, from the letterbox to the Tree of Life on the fence, has been crafted with care to create a sanctuary that’s as inspiring as it is peaceful, offering a true taste of Aotearoa right at home.
