Onyx Pavilion

The Onyx Pavilion is a masterclass in sustainable luxury. Commissioned by Blackwood Developments as a showcase of what modern prefabrication can achieve, this four-bedroom residence sets new standards for energy-efficient design in New Zealand. Situated on a lakefront section in Wanaka, the home's distinctive black steel cladding (ColorCote EnduraMax in Nero) creates a striking silhouette against the surrounding schist landscape. The building's U-shaped floor plan wraps around a central courtyard, creating protected outdoor spaces while maximizing natural light penetration. Passive solar design principles guide the orientation, with the primary living spaces facing north to capture winter sun while deep eaves provide summer shading. The result is a home that requires minimal active heating — the underfloor heating system runs just 2-3 months per year. The open-plan living pavilion spans 12 metres without internal supports, made possible by our proprietary cold-rolled steel portal frame system. This engineering achievement creates an uninterrupted flow between kitchen, dining, and living areas, all framed by 3-metre-high glazed walls overlooking Lake Wanaka.