
With limited land available and many older homes sitting on large sections, Taupō is an ideal place to rethink what’s possible when it comes to home building. Landmark Homes’ new Hilltop Showhome does exactly that.
Built on the site of a former 1970s house, it’s a design-led response to modern living – showing how Landmark Homes is helping homeowners unlock the potential of their properties through smart Remove and Rebuild solutions, including the option to subdivide.
With a contemporary aesthetic, a flexible layout, and a design that’s been carefully tailored for both style and value, this Showhome offers a future-ready alternative – one that adapts to a range of lifestyles, without compromising on comfort or quality.
From the street, clean lines and layered materials give this 238m², three bedroom Showhome an eye-catching presence. A layered blend of Celcrete plaster and Evolv1 cedar sets the tone – crisp, modern, and deliberately understated. The forms are bold but balanced, with cantilevered windows and stepped façades that bring depth and interest from every angle.
“We didn’t want it to feel like just another two storey box,” says Landmark Homes Taupō franchisee, Steven Painter. “There’s a lot of thought in how the claddings interact and where the features land. It needed to feel grounded but still stand out.”
The elevation adds to the sense of arrival, with full-height glazing and a spacious deck inviting you to look further. It’s a home that feels considered – one that reveals itself slowly and rewards a closer look.


Step through the front door and you arrive on the lower level, home to a fully self-contained suite that’s been thoughtfully designed for flexibility. With two bedrooms, a bathroom, living area, and provisions for a kitchenette, it’s ideal for hosting guests, extended family, or generating income through short-term stays.
The space has its own external access and a secure internal lock-off, making it a great option for Airbnb, multi-generational living, or simply offering extra independence for older children or long-term visitors.
“It’s designed to be really versatile,” says Steven. “People might use it for family or rent it out. It’s set up to give you options.”
From here, a light-filled staircase leads up to the main living area, where the home really opens up. It’s a layout that adapts to different needs, while still feeling cohesive and connected.
At the heart of the Showhome, the upstairs living space brings everything together – kitchen, dining, and lounge all flowing in one generous, light-filled zone.
The kitchen is clean-lined and quietly refined, with Calacatta-style benchtops, a butler’s pantry, and soft-toned cabinetry that keeps the space feeling open and relaxed. Recessed LED strip lighting adds a modern touch without visual clutter, while the Renai Evolve gas fire brings warmth and comfort on cooler Taupō evenings.
“It’s really lovely,” says Steven. “We’ve taken a ‘less is more’ approach, and it’s worked. There’s space to breathe, but still plenty of interest.”
Finishes like the smoky glass splashback and Forte timber flooring strike a balance between durability and understated elegance, while the absence of hanging lights helps maintain clean sightlines throughout the space.
Full-height sliders open onto a covered deck, a standout feature that adds a whole new layer of living. At around 10 metres long and 3 metres deep, with frameless glass balustrades, it’s ideal for entertaining or enjoying a quiet moment in the sun.
Private retreat
Tucked away upstairs, the master bedroom offers a quiet escape from the rest of the home. Generously sized and filled with natural light, it’s designed to feel calm and unhurried.
A large walk-in wardrobe keeps the space clutter-free, while soft finishes and full-length drapes add just the right amount of texture and warmth. It’s simple, but thoughtfully done, consistent with the rest of the home’s understated style.
“There’s a real sense of space up here,” says Steven. “It’s not about being flashy. It’s just comfortable, private, and easy to live in.”
Bathrooms
The bathrooms follow the same design approach as the rest of the home –elegant, well-appointed, and quietly refined. Warm neutrals, floating vanities, and round mirrors create a sense of softness, while tiled floors and simple fixtures keep things easy to maintain.
“We’ve kept it really nice and conservative,” says Steven. “It’s about showing people that you don’t have to overdo it to get a great result.”
There’s no excess here. Just a well-executed balance of style and practicality. It’s another reminder that good design isn’t always about more; often, it’s about knowing where to stop.
Explore what’s possible
Whether you’re considering a Remove and Rebuild, exploring Design and Build options, or simply looking for ideas that balance style with flexibility, this Hilltop Showhome is full of inspiration.
The Landmark Homes Taupō team invites you to experience this Showhome for yourself – a modern, well-considered build that shows what’s possible when great design meets everyday living.
Now open for viewing at 69 Rokino Road, Hilltop, Taupō, daily 1.00pm to 4.00pm, or by appointment.
