Lindis Lodge binds grandeur and luxury with solitude and scenic beauty in New Zealand’s glacier. Based in the remote Ahuriri Valley in Otago, New Zealand, the award-winning Lindis Lodge has all the features of a five-star resort, with beautifully stylish bedrooms and living spaces, a private chef and a grand billiard room – though the real drawcard is the landscape. Designed by Architecture Workshop and built by Brosnan Construction, the local environment was without a doubt the key inspiration for the project, where pure elegance is combined with the peacefully serene but striking surrounds that span 2,700 hectares.
In keeping with the location’s natural beauty and the project’s sustainability objectives, Big River Group’s plywood and flooring products were chosen due to their hard-wearing durability and natural, warm tones that provided a beautifully aesthetic interior. The company’s quality Armourpanel Spotted Gum was used for the bathroom cabinetry, bed furniture, wall linings and perforated screens throughout the five-room resort and recreation areas. The ArmourFloor Spotted Gum 189 then provided the lodge’s flooring, including the public space and all bedrooms.
Architect Chris Kelly of Architecture Workshop says the inspiring New Zealand landscape helped too: “The lodge was designed to be nestled unobtrusively into the landscape and we knew by choosing the Big River materials, they would be in perfect synergy with this. Environmental issues were absolutely an important factor in us working with the products, as they are natural, have minimal waste, and are ecologically produced.”
As one of Australia’s strongest plywoods, Armourpanel has a unique construction method that sees each of its five layers of Australian hardwood sheets bonded together in a cross-ply manufacturing process to form a strong, solid, stable decorative panel. Its toughness makes it ideal for use in hardwearing areas, and it is a go-to choice amongst architects, builders and homeowners looking for a superior product.
“Due to the build’s remote location and subsequent exposure to extreme weather conditions, the project didn’t come without its logistical challenges,” said Stuart McGonagle, National Plywood and Specialty Manager, Big River Group. “This is why the versatility, stability and toughness of our products are a great match for Lindis Lodge as they are able to withstand these sorts of pressures while also delivering on visual aesthetics,” continues Stuart.
Since completion in 2018, the building has achieved the client’s objective of establishing Lindis Lodge as one of the highest calibre accommodation options in New Zealand. So far, the project has picked up a number of accolades including a Southern Architecture Award and the prestigious Hotel and Leisure – Completed Buildings category at the 2019 World Architecture Festival.