A Japandi Retreat

Blending Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian warmth, this striking Waikato home uses Hardie™ fibre cement products to deliver bold architectural form, low-maintenance durability and a strong connection to its rural setting.

Perched among the rolling hills of the Maungatautari reserve, Richard and Rachel’s home was designed to make a statement while remaining in harmony with its natural surroundings. After years of renovating cottage-style homes, the couple saw this project as an opportunity to create something entirely different – a contemporary home built around simplicity, flexibility and respect for the natural landscape.

Working alongside Landmark Homes, they embraced the concept of Japandi design, which combines the best of Japanese and Scandinavian design principles. The resulting home is organised into three separate pods, allowing areas of the house to be closed off when not in use and providing flexibility as family needs evolve over time.

A key part of achieving the home’s architectural character was selecting a cladding system that would complement the minimalist design while standing up to the demands of an exposed rural location. They chose Oblique™ Weatherboard installed over RAB™ Board by James Hardie, creating a sleek, contemporary exterior defined by crisp lines and strong geometric forms.

Finished in Resene Nero, the dark façade sits confidently within the Waikato landscape, demonstrating the design freedom offered by James Hardie’s durable fibre cement technology. The weatherboard profile creates dramatic shadow lines that reinforce the home’s striking architectural presence while remaining understated and timeless.

“The best money we spent was the Oblique™ Weatherboard for the exterior and the kitchen, as these are the main defining features of our home,” says Rachel.

Inside, the home’s carefully considered layout ensures every space feels connected to the surrounding environment. Large windows frame sweeping views across the adjacent reserve, while generous indoor-outdoor flow encourages daily interaction with the landscape. The dark palette established by the exterior continues throughout the interior, where an all-black kitchen and scullery create a sophisticated focal point.

Thoughtful details reinforce the design language throughout the home, including vertical feature panels that reference the linear appearance of the exterior cladding. Together, these elements create a cohesive aesthetic that feels both modern and welcoming.

For Richard and Rachel, the home’s greatest reward is the daily pleasure it gives them. “The way it functions and makes me feel grounded is truly special; I feel genuinely privileged to experience this view every day.”

Reflecting on the building journey, they encourage others to embrace the new build process and explore the possibilities available to them.