A collaboration between architect Glenn O’Connell and the owners of a property in Morrinsville, nestled between the Kaimai Ranges and the Waikato River, has resulted in a simply stunning home.

The use of timber and other natural materials, including stone, combine to provide a contemporary farmhouse aesthetic that complements both the landscape and the owner’s requirements and lifestyle.

Designed by Glenn and built by John Mourits, the home features expansive open plan living areas with sweeping ceilings and exposed timber beams, which frame the views of the surrounding landscape offered through floor to ceiling windows.

Glenn, a Director of Graphite Architects, says glulam timber beams were specified in the design to meet the functional structural engineering requirements. However, the dimensions and finish of Prolam Glulam Beams allowed Glenn to achieve the desired visual impact.

The visual grade beams were machine finished and oiled. Designed to be seen, they create a striking effect — adding warmth to the home’s interior while delivering the beautiful clean lines and spaciousness intrinsic to the modern farmhouse aesthetic.

Glenn has specified Prolam glulam timber products for a number of projects using the Prolam Specifier. He sees it as a vital tool for designing timber elements, and a key factor in his selection of glulam timber products which meet his requirements in terms of form and function.

“Visual appearance, availability and technical support are important factors for us," says Glenn O’Connell, Director, Graphite Architects. "Prolam exceeded our expectations on each of these aspects.”