When you think of a farmhouse, you might picture a quaint, rustic building with a touch of country charm, but probably not all the conveniences of modern living. Two Gables in Tasman, New Zealand, designed by First Light, shows that a modern farmhouse can blend the best of both worlds—offering all the conveniences of contemporary living while seamlessly fitting into a beautiful rural landscape.
At the heart of this design is the idea of creating a home that feels both modern and connected to its surroundings. Two Gables achieves this balance with finesse, making it a perfect example of how a modern farmhouse can embrace the comforts of today’s lifestyle while maintaining a harmonious relationship with the rural environment.
The home’s central courtyard and deck are designed to create a fluid connection between the indoors and outdoors. This thoughtful design not only enhances the living experience but also ensures that the home feels integrated with the natural beauty of its surroundings.
Two Gables includes a double garage and workshop, ideal for hobbies or extra storage. Inside, you’ll find three spacious bedrooms and two well-appointed bathrooms, catering to the needs of a modern family. Of course the kitchen is the heart of any good farmhouse. Here the kitchen, complete with a scullery, combines functionality with a welcoming atmosphere. It is the perfect space for both daily meals and entertaining guests.
But this farmhouse isn’t just about modern luxury; it’s also about being environmentally conscious and connecting with nature. The home embraces high-performance and Passivhaus design principles, featuring airtightness membranes, mechanical ventilation systems, and thermally broken windows, all protected by 150mm twin skin walls. These elements ensure the home is energy-efficient and comfortable, reflecting a commitment to sustainability.
Two Gables also incorporates locally sourced timber—Japanese Cedar for the exterior and Poplar for the interior. This choice not only supports local resources but also reinforces the home’s connection to its rural setting. The use of these materials adds a unique character to the house, blending it seamlessly with the natural landscape.
Another key aspect of the design is the way it fosters community and connection. The home encourages relationships with neighbouring houses, many of which are occupied by family members. This integration helps Two Gables fit into its rural context, promoting a sense of belonging and continuity within the community.
In addition to its practical features, Two Gables offers a serene ambiance with protected views of the river lands and the ‘Garden of Eden’ native planting project. This focus on the natural environment enhances the home’s charm and underscores its role as a peaceful retreat.
Custom-built joinery, including bookshelves, a study desk, and built-in seating, ensures that every aspect of Two Gables is tailored to its owners’ needs. These personalised touches make the home not only functional but also deeply connected to its rural setting.
Two Gables by First Light is a brilliant example of how a modern farmhouse can harmonise with its rural landscape while providing all the conveniences of contemporary living. It combines the best of both worlds, offering a stylish and comfortable home that embraces modernity without losing touch with the natural beauty of its surroundings.
