This contemporary house is built in New Zealand and features a tower-like design that arises among the trees

This black house was built by studio Glamuzina Paterson Architects and it occupies a steep site in New Zealand, accessible from the top and through a winding path among the trees. Why black? It’s an attempt to establish visual harmony between architecture and nature. The house has a tower-like design because the owners wanted a house among the tree canopies and wished to preserve the surrounding landscape as best as possible. It features a ground floor with a small footprint of only 47 square meters and additional upper floors that get even smaller, measuring 34 square meters across.

The house was built on a modest budget and maintains a simple aesthetic inside and out, based on functionality. The two outdoor decks follow the contours of the land and establish a close connection between the interior spaces and the outdoors. The North-facing facade is fully exposed to the beautiful tree canopies and has large glazed surfaces which frame these lovely views. The interior of the house is organized of four split levels, creating clear distinctions between the various different areas and their specific functions.

The kitchen and dining room for example are slightly elevated, creating the impression of a sunken living room. At the same time, the living room is a double-height space which feels very bright, airy and spacious despite its reduced dimensions. The use of reclaimed wood for the flooring and the warm and earthy selection of finishes and colors creates a very pleasant and comfortable atmosphere throughout the entirety of this black house.

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The house has two outdoor decks surrounded by dense vegetation and with access to the immediate surroundings

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The tall and narrow structure allows the house to rise among the tall tree canopies and to make the most of its location

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The second deck is done with a dining set for outdoor meals

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The main layout is an open space with several rooms and a second floor incorporated

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The living room is done with some comfortable furniture and a bookcase going up to the ceiling

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Window seats and other viewing areas are scattered throughout the floor plan, making the most of the magnificent landscape

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The bedroom is woodland-inspired, it features a wood paneled wall, antlers, some wooden furniture and a large bed

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The kitchen is small and is done with black cabinets, there’s a dining space by the glazed wall here

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The upper floor is more private, with bedrooms and bathrooms and is separated from the lower one