Masterpiece Abodes: The Shepherds Hut by Fearon Hay
At Oblica, we are passionate about contributing to architectural masterpieces that push the boundaries of design and craftsmanship.
The Shepherds Hut, designed by acclaimed architect Fearon Hay, is a stunning ode to minimalism and craftsmanship. Located in the remote and rugged beauty of New Zealand’s South Island, on an isolated peninsula overlooking Lake Wanaka, this architectural gem embraces the raw, natural landscape while providing a deeply considered and luxurious retreat.
A Harmonious Connection to Nature
Nestled quietly within a dramatic natural landscape of undulating hills, vast open plains and distant mountains, The Shepherds Hut feels like a seamless extension of its surroundings. Fearon Hay’s architectural philosophy is beautifully expressed here: simplicity, material honesty, and a refined connection to place. With its muted palette, clean lines, and thoughtful use of natural materials like timber, steel, and stone, the home creates a sense of calm and seclusion. Every design choice pays homage to the elements and the landscape.
The architecture of The Shepherds Hut rejects excess, instead focusing on creating purposeful and intimate spaces. A restrained footprint ensures the home integrates effortlessly into its environment while offering everything needed for comfort and connection. Here, minimalism is not an aesthetic statement alone but a way of living in harmony with the land.
Beauty and Purpose Combined
At the heart of The Shepherds Hut, both visually and functionally, is the Shaker fireplace by Skantherm. A masterpiece of design in its own right, the Shaker perfectly complements the project’s aesthetic vision and practical needs. Compact yet powerful, its clean lines and pared-back aesthetic make it a natural fit for the home’s interior.
The Shaker fireplace does more than provide warmth – it creates a focal point that invites gathering, reflection, and connection. Its timeless design speaks to the ethos of The Shepherds Hut: intentional living with an emphasis on quality and craftsmanship. With its matte black finish and slender frame, the Shaker fireplace contrasts beautifully against the home’s natural textures, while its efficient heating capabilities ensure the space remains cosy and welcoming, even on the coldest wind-swept nights of winter.
Thoughtful Craftsmanship in Every Detail
The Shepherds Hut is a testament to the power of thoughtful design. Every detail, from the choice of materials to the integration of functional elements, has been carefully curated to enhance both the home’s aesthetic appeal and its liveability. The Shaker fireplace is no exception. Its compact form allows it to sit effortlessly within the space, providing warmth without overwhelming the room’s minimalist composition.
The inclusion of the Shaker fireplace also reflects Fearon Hay’s commitment to creating spaces that celebrate simplicity and purpose. By choosing a piece that is as functional as it is beautiful, the architects have reinforced the home’s overarching design philosophy – a philosophy that values quality, restraint, and connection.
A Place to Gather, Reflect, and Connect
The Shepherds Hut is more than a home; it is a retreat that celebrates the quiet luxury of living well. It is a place for stories to be shared, moments to be savoured, and connections to deepen. As flames flicker within its slender frame, the fireplace becomes a subtle yet significant presence in the home, enhancing the atmosphere with its understated elegance.
At Oblica, we believe that the right fireplace can transform a space, and the Shaker fireplace in The Shepherds Hut is a perfect example of this. It is a piece that contributes to the home’s design language as well as its functionality.
Quality of Life Elevated
The Shepherds Hut offers its owner Matt Chapman a unique opportunity to enjoy life in its simplest and most beautiful form. With the rugged New Zealand landscape at his doorstep and a home designed to frame this natural splendour, the experience of living here is one of quiet reflection and deep comfort.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, The Shepherds Hut is a reminder of the power of thoughtful design to create spaces that not only shelter but also nurture. This is a home that elevates the everyday, offering its owner a sanctuary where the elements, architecture, and life come together in perfect harmony.
Architect – Fearon Hay
Interior Design – Paul Kennedy
Photography – Sam Hartnett
