Is This the Best Modern House in the World? (Part 2)

Through natural material selections, Cheshire Architects has unveiled Waiheke House, a home that embraces its surrounds to become the best modern house in the world. Operating under the rule that grandeur does not need to be shown through scale but rather quality, Waiheke House is a place of respite for its owners with only one and a half bedrooms and a focus on entertaining areas. While the views of Waiheke House are only part of what establishes it as the best modern house in the world, it is how the structure inserts itself into the landscape that is awe-inspiring. Focused on evoking the numerous meanings of ‘shelter,’ Waiheke House acts as a platform that can open or close for the watching of the weather as it changes.
Comprised of two pavilions, which are slightly offset from one another, Cheshire Architects have separated the living spaces to designate a place of reprieve and a place to entertain. The larger of the two pavilions, known as the seaward pavilion, is framed by landscaping. Shaped by the stone wall that curves around and holds the home, the idea of anchoring the seaward pavilion is seen through the home’s distinct architectural theme. To make the best modern house in the world feel warm and comfortable, the use of stone, wood and brass help the house insert itself into the surrounding nature.
Created for entertaining, the seaward pavilion is intentionally designed to be small, with only a kitchen, large dining section and lounge. Framed by glass on three sides, doors butterfly open so that the living areas can connect seamlessly with the lawn. Conceptually thought of as a canopy atop a mouth of a cave, Cheshire Architects has formed the best modern house in the world to navigate a spatial dialect that speaks to both broad ocean views and small, contained spaces. Throughout the house tour, it is evident that the selected surfaces and materials are chosen to act as a vessel for experience - an idea that Cheshire Architects hopes will still be embodied in 100 years as the home ages in place.
Seen in the stacked stone of the wall to the layered floor, Cheshire Architects avoids using crisp whites or laminates and instead imbues the home with richness from natural materials. Throughout the second pavilion, the adaption of narrower halls, lower ceilings and darker tones have been employed to create a dynamic internal contrast. Intended as a retreat for the owners, Waiheke House is a place to align and connect with the natural surroundings. By focusing on simple, high-quality design choices over scale, Cheshire Architects has created the best modern house in the world so that it may amplify what already exists.
00:00 - Introduction to the Best Modern House in the World
00:45 - An Island Location
01:05 - The Aspect of the House
01:35 - Tasked with Entertaining
02:01 - The House Plan and its Materials
03:39 - Hidden Openings and Passages
04:22 - Bathing Rituals
05:27 - The Goal Behind the Home
05:43 - Creating a Centred Feeling
06:09 - Becoming One with the Environment
06:33 - A Vessel for Experience
06:53 - A Home Made with Real Materials
07:20 - A Love for the Layered Experience
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Photography by Sam Hartnett.
Architecture and Interior Design by Cheshire Architects.
Build by Lindesay Construction.
Landscape by URBANite.
Structural Engineering by Holmes.
Geotechnical Engineering by Ormiston Associates.
Filmed and Edited by Cadre.
Production by The Local Project.
The Local Project acknowledges Māori as tangata whenua and Treaty of Waitangi partners in Aotearoa New Zealand. We recognise the importance of Indigenous peoples in the identity of our respective countries and continuing connections to Country and community. We pay our respect to Elders, past and present and extend that respect to all Indigenous people of these lands.
#ModernHouse #HouseTour #Architecture

[@TheLocalProject]

We hope you enjoyed the modern and wonderous Waiheke House by Cheshire Architects, this exceptional home was recently featured on the back cover of our Book: 10 - Celebrating 10 Issues of The Local Project. For more of the very best architecture and design from our first 10 issues, make sure to order our hardcopy book - thelocalproject.com.au/product/10-celebrating-10-issues-of-the-local-project/

[@christopherride3764]

In 100 years this will still be a magnificent house. One of the most inspiring homes I have ever seen 🏆

[@Z_bra]

It was a magnificent house in 1500 B.C when they built it, too.

[@Hermes_Agoraeus]

I think this is the most thoughtful verbal presentation I've heard on this channel. Well done!

[@ifitistobeitisuptome]

I personally found that a little annoying! Although I am impressed that he managed to talk for an entire 8 minutes without using the word 'materiality' even once! Very rare for a Kiwi/Aussie Architect!

[@Hermes_Agoraeus]

@@ifitistobeitisuptome I did notice his use of "friction".

[@RustyRYO11]

@@ifitistobeitisuptome That man really said, "There are two opportunities for bathing in the home."

[@paulsmith9868]

This is stunning and yet at the same time sickening, knowing that only the very rich can flaunt like this while they ignore the plight of so many homeless in their own country.

[@craignyatondo5521]

Literally poetic 🌸

[@jecsaundersjess]

This is downright poetic and meditative. What a beautiful approach to architecture.

[@TheLocalProject]

Couldn't agree more.

[@charlesm835]

5:13 One of the most breath taking bathroom views I think I've ever seen. Just speechless

[@andreafoti6634]

incredible home. It's stunning but also feels so cozy, and like a place that you could actually live, and unwind and be at peace. And that bath.... absolutely gorgeous property

[@anamariekllll]

This home is absolutely breathtaking, and the amount of intention that was put into creating it is incredibly refreshing and deeply inspiring! I love it!

[@Joshlaneynz]

This is the most beautiful home I’ve ever seen on the Local Project, in fact ever.

[@mindingminds]

I forgot to breathe. What a serene home...

[@seccondmousegetsthecheese4205]

I worked on the construction of much of this house. Six years ago we stayed onsite for months. My main task initially was building the foundations and the swimming pool. Im a little surprised that the pool I put so much work into is not featured in this extensive clip about the house. You can see it in the title shot and thats all.

[@zeidatiyah7667]

this must be quite disappointing for you. although briefly featured in the title shot for only a few seconds, one can certainly appreciate how beautiful it is and how much effort has been put into it. it complements the house perfectly and enhances it's calming, spatial theme. excellent work.

[@adas666]

3:15

[@seccondmousegetsthecheese4205]

What do you intend to point out at 3:15

[@dorothythorpe6183]

Congratulations. I'm glad you got to be a part of a beautiful house! I appreciate your work; nothing good happens without a solid foundation.

[@curtkautsch]

Trades are never appreciated. Sad times.

[@user-ms2wc1qb1n]

The LOCAL PROJECT as always inimitable.

[@luciapartikova9290]

I never write comments and yet I had to this time. This is truly a masterpiece and beautiful art. If i was to design my house this would be it. Love all the details and the way it blends with the environment and landscape.

[@yayacartii]

Yes, same

[@nicoleta1882]

the effect of the music, the words like a poem or a fine wine, the video, the scenery and colour tones, made me feel soothed. I would love to spend time in that home, it's everything I would want in my own dream house.

[@old0range]

Im normally not a fan of overtly flowerly language when describing designs but the use here is appropriate with the focus on how the home makes you feel. Another great feature Local Project team! thanks for sharing!

[@JoaoSilva-sz1fw]

Can we please make this gentleman the presenter of every house tours? The house is mind blowing but his narrative makes me love even more every detail. I found myself holding the breath sometimes, I felt so emotional... Wonderful presentation!

[@adilsonjoaomartins5949]

Essa apresentação do imóvel me tocou profundamente.... valeu 👍🏽🆗🙏🏽🥰

[@bernicesitawa8751]

That's true. It's the story telling behind the house that actually captures more of our attention. 👏

[@flashback_jade]

This is probably going to sound very strange, but I actually starting crying when the transition from the pavilion to the interior cavelike area was shown. It was so peaceful, comforting, and beautiful. I can't explain it.

[@richmondvand147]

its one of the most beautfiul houses on the planet - not strange at all for me seeing the scenery and its incorporation into a very intentional home is what gets me so you're not alone there

[@plhongflores]

SAME!

[@natantataii8195]

Jade I can confirm. It sounds strange ;)

[@sleepystudent3400]

I get it

[@kayelyward8714]

There a certain sense of calm and serenity that comes from this home. To bathe in a tub at the base of a wig dow with a spectacular view while warm.gentle breezes float in is an ideal experience. The views both by day and by night ate beautiful. The fireplace warms the stone and glass from which the home is created. The combination of the stone, glass, and the view is spectacular. The feel is one of comfort with contemplative spaces which suit the recharging of one's batteries. It's a wonderful creation and a spectacular home.

[@rickroll9086]

The quality of the build; the perfect craftsmanship. Unbelievable. The custom stonework and joinery; let alone the razor thin roof. Wow. Well done not only to the architects, but the the people who crafted this house.

[@onevodkasoda]

I got emotional by how he describes this beautiful home. wow.

[@adilsonjoaomartins5949]

Concordo plenamente meu amigo 👍🏽👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼😍

[@oneiros1401]

5:14 wow, look at the view, absolutely stunning!

[@salmanarif77]

Just by watching this video, I feel so relaxed. I wonder how would it feel by living in a place like this.

[@lukestuart1913]

all the videos on this channel are so relaxing

[@henryhealy]

Quite simply, that is one of the nicest views you could have from your home. What a stunning design.

[@fluffer4049]

Dreamy escape. Encapsulates and amplifies.

[@mignoncat1]

this home breaks your heart while simultaneously giving such a tremendous sense of eternal hope. it's silent , natural elegance is remarkable.

[@pablogalvz]

refreshing to see a modern home that isn't focused on technology but rather on the fundamentals of living amongst your environment. beautiful!

[@todd-7819]

All that stone! gorgeous! these owners are riccccchhhhhhh

[@swiperoom]

Just mindblowing. This is pure perfection. From location to the house itself.

[@tanyam3090]

I can not express how much I simply adore this home. What a triumph.

[@_amandalouis_]

Wow!!! Such a beautiful home! It’s so quiet and serene and somehow still warm and cozy! Love it!

[@andruw9011]

More like the Best narration in the World for a modern house

[@BLarquitetura]

This project is pure art!

[@padureancalin8096]

The level of sophistication and depth to every detail is simply out of this world. Congrats to the architect!!!

[@DForDelecTable]

Beautiful home with a serene setting ❤

[@MLeighland]

💚💚💚💚 the stone. Thank you for sharing.

[@arsalanz2214]

It's amazing what a good architect can do. Offsetting solid rock walls with darker wood makes the house feel so light and airy. Stunning piece of architecture.

[@iambazii]

This video is by far one of my favourites. I'm gonna be pondering on this one for a while

[@WilliamSilva-yz4wl]

When I hit the jackpot I am hiring these architects ❤

[@chavlichek1]

Incredible home - classic sophistication - understanding the depth of simplicity. Bravo!

[@23479]

Impeccable. Period.

[@nicolakestel-lifestyleceo4040]

I never imagined stone, glass and wood could feel and look so ethereal. Absolutely stunning 🤍

[@buba_Dukz]

Is this what perfection looks like? 😭🥺🤍

[@anonymousjustice4357]

Wow, this house made me cry ! No words, it is like you have arrived to heaven ❤

[@innocentnyawula2048]

what a piece of art. I love the shower very space Moody and darker. The colours of the material used very natural. I Love it.

[@bibisanchez6041]

Very beautifully articulated. I enjoyed hearing his intentions behind each choice. Refreshing and inspirational.

[@roy_540]

the combination of that view and the simple architecture of the house is just heavenly😍

[@iahorvath]

Stunningly beautiful home!

[@tanyam3090]

I can’t say how much I love this home. Simply breathtaking. Well done.

[@gracesmail1900]

BRAVO Cheshire Architects. Beautifully considered and executed. thank you for sharing the experience that the honesty of materiality (no veneers, stacked stone) was able to create. I felt held in that space througha screen I cant imagine the impact of actually being there. bravo.

[@j.p.p.1964]

...a dream becomes reality! Breathtaking!

[@dwainimaduwa]

"Curves around you to hold you" Absolutely beautiful 👏🏼

[@witi1111]

The most incredible clip from you @Thelocalproject. Really, I've been watching your films for a long time and I've never seen such a beautiful views and house. Even though it is not my style, the architect did really good job building this house. It's pleasure to watch. 5:13 TOP! Thanks!

[@yasminhelenendangeredspecies]

Love this Vessel of Comfort you have created 💖 Like a futuristic World-The Sheltered Home that Moved Forward to Meet the Times. I absolutely Love the Stonework all throughout-Love the New Zealand Vistas 🌌 So Dreamy ~ Post Script a # of Caveats have just arrived..un momento..I do have to say the more I think about this completely unattainable Shelter I have already begun decorating it-adding many soft thick rugs and giant pillows; really warming up the place. I started imagining living there with my imaginary fantasy husband and all of a sudden during a dinner party with friends gathered around for a lovely dinner all of a sudden a flock of fifty or so wild geese touched down. And everyone oo'ed and aahed at the lovely honking geese. Their was lively talk and clinking of glasses and dinnerware. Then someone noticed how the Geese had simply walked into the kitchen and livingroom because after all, we had all those giant window doors flung wide open. Before we knew it the dinner party guests were surrounded by 50 or so giant Geese all walking and honking about and really talking quite loudly amongst themselves. We tried to shoo them all out of course, and my little dog and his crew of Lhasa Apso's chased those Geese but the Geese were quite stubborn....and so one can imagine..how something like that might go. I wondered if while cleaning that lovely house what would happen if I happened to trip and fall and accidentally hit my head on all those giant stones used as walls? A serious concussion tbs! I think if I fall down now in my own not so glamorous Home-at least there is a lot of soft carpeting plus the walls are not made of stone. I tried to imagine taking a shower in that dark cave shower and I just shuddered...as in. Uhm. Nope. So while it's clearly a Stunner, sadly I will not be making a bid. Although obviously, many others will. Surely there is a solution to keeping the wildlife outside? Sorry, I couldn't resist being realistic about such an out of this World piece of Real Estate. I think Tom Cruise could buy it and he and his buddies could go cliff diving with parachutes right off that ledge. Yes! This is most definitely a House built for Tom Cruise 😎💪💖 ~ Brave Onward & Wild Irish Blessings to you 🍀

[@fassphoto]

How beautiful and peaceful habitat

[@JJ_439]

Absolutely stunning home. One of the most beautiful I've ever seen. It's a tragedy that it is only a holiday home and not someone's full-time residence.

[@Ronjohnalex]

I really like the way the top and bottom of the window frames are concealed flush with the floor and ceiling.

[@gavinhosie9018]

This is the perfect example of exacting standards, quality, sophistication and most importantly - simplicity. What a beautiful home. What a location. 💯

[@sealswimswim354]

This man truly made the stone shine! The form of the structure is a warm, yet strong, embrace. Stone has a surprising way of providing softness through the protection offered by its secure mass.

[@KKG3388]

What a magnificent piece of Architecture situated on breathtaking surroundings! The content on this channel is brilliant, thank you for sharing!

[@TheLocalProject]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@yasminhelenendangeredspecies]

Yes, I agree. Thank You. Gives me something to Dream about when I need to transport myself away from my muddy surroundings.

[@English_raccoon]

The feeling of uniqueness and fragility! Amazing work!

[@creativebyarmi]

This is beyond words! Congratulations on creating such a beautiful space. The quality over quantity really shines through... Who needs more with such stunning surroundings. My new dream home!

[@MayaLove1976]

The whole house is phenomenal, but that pool! 💜

[@willbass2869]

3:31 LOVE the contrast of the high lustre wood floor vs the wall panel (oiled?) and finally the intersecting stone floor. Great placement of the large stone at the intersection. Texture, color and lustre between the three elements just great

[@curtismiller319]

Best part of this home is the views however this home is stunning!

[@AbDullAHMoHAAmeD]

I love the stones..

[@nikkilogan7726]

Love this home! Magnificent & Inspiring home! Many people would want to live there including myself. So beautiful makes me wanna live there. Love that home! Thanks Local Project 😎💖

[@mariostellino]

That is one piece of magnificent structural poetry ....that has to be the best house I have seen in a long time in one of the most beautiful country I have even spent time in ... among the many compliments I could come up with ....you have respected that spiritual quality of the site to the best of your abilities ....it seems to be expected ...but the list of beautiful sites being RAPED by architecture is a long one . .... i would consider spending a day in it with a nice glass of wine , lost in my thoughts , a lifetime privilege. Cheers

[@sirbean5985]

This is timeless..

[@MrPatsteen]

Absolutely gorgeous build! Richard Neutra meets the All Blacks in the most elegant way! ;)

[@elephantintheroom5678]

Absolutely one of the most wonderful dwellings I have ever seen. The way its shape and weight fits into the environment is perfect, and the materials blend so well with the hills, the trees and the sea. I especially love that vast curved rock wall, like a ridge of stone jutting from the earth and sheltering the pool, it's a modern masterpiece playing upon the way natural pools are often nestled next to rock faces. It deserves a ten out of ten!

[@TheLocalProject]

Couldn't agree more!

[@gracesmail1900]

agreed

[@catchingfeelings4395]

NATUREally Beautiful!

[@dear_darling]

Stunning architecture well suited to this phenomenal site. Love the use of stone especially and the wave stone wall that translates from the structure to the landscape ❤

[@cillamoke]

My eldest son was born in Waiheke Island. I bet things have changed so much since we lived there in the early-mid 90’s

[@laurentivoli1183]

Absolute perfection, to me. 👏

[@stefanycarty851]

Thank you for showing more of the house, the overall layout shot was helpful to follow where the narration was leading the audience.

[@lydiarowe491]

A place of great beauty..to make a nest that blends into almost not being there is the greatest achievement..breath taking…meaning the house and the scape…floating into reality.

[@lesliemctavish4300]

Breathtaking...applause and gratitude for this house and the narrative. I've never seen anything like this house.

[@TheLocalProject]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@MrSusnvicha]

the narrative and the voice is such a quality of great documentary.

[@DebbieHollandNZ]

Absolutely beautiful the purest essence of what a home should be! ps I live on Waiheke Island and my house also draws the outside and the elements into the home it is very healing and calming even when the storms rage through.

[@sergiosaunier]

You are a lucky person, living in such a beautiful place. Do you also share the same views?

[@DebbieHollandNZ]

@@sergiosaunier I am very blessed indeed x no I live on the western side but have awesome views also. Both my houses have large bifolds that open up and like this one you feel like the outside is inside. Waiheke Island is a very special place in the world.

[@lalahaha5313]

Even though I'm a proud "maximalist", I still LOVED this house.

[@roypaulcarter4654]

Love love love this house. It belongs where it was built.

[@jenniferconsiglio7143]

Dreamy, charming, sophisticated but simple. Absolutely breathtaking. From the natural materials to the stunning views throughout. Bravo to all who participated in the design of this home. 🤩

[@MonsieurChangify]

Bravo! The layering and the journey through spaces, from cavernous to openness, are incredible. The honesty of materials produces a timeless quality.

[@starjeweller]

Wonderful place and minimal architecture made from natural materials.

[@fredsavage4925]

Perfect size, perfect location.

[@DanielFernandez]

Stunning!

[@rebeccaw9656]

Probably my favourite.

[@rosestewart181]

Breath taking house and breath taking views

[@darwinjames2000]

WOW! Very beautiful home!

[@WARNER671]

The audio presentation is right on point. The attention to detail....

[@nadstunes77]

Pure perfection in every single immaculate detail....love it...yes its the best yet

[@ericarey64]

GAAAAAASSSSSPPPPINNNNNNG. Whilst i am completely mesmerised at such an incredible piece of art, i wonder about the flies and mosquitos. However, i'm still gasssssping.

[@patricianaves9025]

Parabéns pelo projeto, casa deliciosa de ser curtir! Texto magnífico, viajei nas suas palavras…. Retornei a NZ através delas❤

[@Thebeanmachine4519]

This video is absolutely beautiful. What a place to live... Just wow

[@Lover-ur4te]

This is one of the most beautiful homes I've ever seen.

[@MrJadeDoel]

Ka pai George, wonderful to experience your creation and to see you doing remarkable work since all those years back at Unitec.

[@hubertdaugherty8986]

What a distinctive space.

[@dibyojyotisaha8592]

one word...Amazing!

[@whoami6702]

Indescribably exquisite in every aspect. The only challenge to living in a space like this is I could easily forget this world of form is not the final destination. "The world is a Bridge, pass over it, but build no houses upon it... the World endures but an hour. Spend it in prayer for the rest is unseen." -- Akbar

[@boglarkasomogyi5711]

I have never seen something like this! Breathtaking!