Special views called for a special product – doors that could disappear from sight. “We put it out there and presumed it was available,” said the homeowner, and thanks to Vantage it was.

With views to Mt Maunganui and Matakana Island the homeowners wanted to enjoy the views without obstruction. The answer was to take advantage of a feature available in APL Architectural Series sliding doors that allow panels to retract over an adjoining wall.

A stacker sliding door with four panels was installed that span floor to ceiling and measure 2.6m high. They run on an exterior frame so that the doors can stack out of sight when wanted. But that isn’t the only innovation – the sill is recessed into the floor for a flush indoor-outdoor feature, a benefit increasingly sought-after in New Zealand homes.

As with many projects, the windows and doors were mix-n-matched from various product ranges for reasons of economy or functionality. Metro Series doors and windows were used in the majority of the home in Matt Flax Pod powdercoat, including a Plasma entrance door with a special, customised copper-finish pull handle. This cylindrical grip coordinated beautifully with the flush, rusticated cedar cladding on all sides of the main entry.

The overall look of the house is dominated by earthy, natural tones and textures – cedar boards and soffits that align with the interior ceiling level, in-situ concrete with a rough, ‘natural pour’ surface, and creamy Garapa decking at the front of the house with a cosy ‘conversation pit’ as a centrepiece, warmed by a gas fire for the cooler winter nights.

A final distinctive touch – a Vantage product making a comeback, has its place in sheltered locations: aluminium louvre blades powdercoated to match the rest of the window and door colour. Aluminium blades, instead of the more common glass, are a great option and offer great ventilation.

For special products, as well as mainstream, put it out there and see if Vantage have it – chances are we will.