Raewyne and Chris Mullan have called Waihī Beach home for more than 30 years. From their original property, they often admired the neighbouring block with its rolling hills, pockets of native bush and sweeping views to Mount Maunganui. Five years ago, they purchased that land, knowing it was the ideal place for the new home they had been dreaming of – a home that would make the most of the views and feel truly part of the landscape.

Working with the Landmark Homes Bay of Plenty team, that vision became a 297m² single-level home where every space is considered, every material is chosen for its beauty and durability, and the outlook is part of daily life. The home was awarded Regional Gold in the 2025 House of the Year Awards and, more importantly, feels as though it has always belonged here.

The Mullans’ new property sits just a few hundred metres from their previous home, yet it offered a completely fresh perspective. Elevated and private, the site captures the best of its rural setting with open pasture, sheltering bush and a clear line to the coast. It also came with a unique challenge. The land formed a pronounced hill, which meant months of reshaping before the build could begin.

Fortunately, the couple own a contracting business and had the machinery to tackle the work themselves. “It was a big job, but having our own gear made it straightforward,” says Raewyne. Levelled and ready, the site became a blank canvas for the design to follow.

When they first met with Landmark Homes Bay of Plenty, the Mullans already had a strong idea of what they wanted. A home they had viewed in Taupō offered the perfect starting point, with a layout that would suit their site and maximise the views. Working with Landmark Homes Bay of Plenty New Homes Consultant Glenn Halls, they adapted the plan, adding extra rooms, reconfiguring spaces and refining the details to suit the way they live.

Choosing Landmark was an easy decision. “We always knew their quality and reputation,” says Raewyne. “We’d been through their Showhomes and could see the standard they build to.” The design process was a true collaboration, blending the couple’s ideas with Landmark’s expertise. Interior colour consultant Rosie Blockley helped finalise finishes and materials, complementing the Mullans’ own sense of style.

The result is a home with two distinct wings. One holds the main suite with ensuite, walk-in wardrobe and a quiet, private feel. The other contains guest bedrooms, a bathroom and an office, giving visitors their own space. At the heart of the home, the kitchen, dining and living areas open wide to the views, while a separate media lounge with barn doors and a gorgeous fireplace offers a cosy retreat.

Every element of the exterior was chosen for both appearance and longevity. Hard as Rocks stone in the Rustic Ledge West Coast profile wraps parts of the façade and continues inside around the fireplace, adding natural texture and a sense of permanence. The main cladding is Flashclad Dualbord Vertical in Light Cedar, an aluminium product with a realistic timber grain that will never need painting. Painted brick and composite decking complete the mix, bringing durability and low maintenance to the fore.

A gabled portico and grooved soffits frame the entrance, setting a warm and welcoming tone from the moment you arrive. For Raewyne, using materials that would stand the test of time was a priority. “We wanted products that wouldn’t need constant upkeep, so we could just enjoy the home,” she says. The combination of stone, timber-look aluminium and brick achieves that goal while blending naturally with the rural surroundings.

Inside, the home carries a palette that feels both modern and timeless. Dark cabinetry, warm timber tones and brass accents create depth, while soft neutrals keep the spaces light and welcoming. Dark grey Laminex Scallop panels feature in the foyer, bedrooms, media room, and on the breakfast bar, adding texture and a subtle sense of luxury.

In the kitchen, black cabinetry with gold hardware sets a striking contrast, while three eye-catching Hinkley pendants from Vogue Lighting hang above the island A walk-through scullery with open shelving keeps everyday clutter out of sight, maintaining the clean lines of the main space.

Bathrooms carry the same refined style, with grey and white Carrara Stone tiles flowing across floors and walls, complemented by gold fixtures, globe lighting and frameless showers. The powder room makes a bolder statement with botanical wallpaper and gold accents.

Every choice reflects a balance of style and practicality. “We knew what we liked and Landmark helped us pull it all together,” says Raewyne. 

At the centre of the home, the open-plan kitchen, dining and living areas are designed for both everyday comfort and entertaining. Large sliders open to a covered deck that runs the length of the main wing, creating a seamless flow between indoors and out. From here, the views stretch across farmland to the coast, making it a favourite spot for family gatherings.

For quieter moments, the media room offers a cosy escape. Framed by barn doors, it features a statement chandelier from La Belle Maison and an Escea Woodland fireplace set into a Hard as Rocks stone surround. 

“We use the media room every night,” says Raewyne. “It’s warm, comfortable and has such a nice atmosphere.”

The main suite is positioned in its own wing for privacy, complete with a walk-in wardrobe and ensuite finished to the same high standard as the rest of the home. Guest bedrooms are tucked into the opposite wing, ensuring visitors have their own space and comfort.

For Raewyne and Chris, building their new home was just as enjoyable as moving in. From the very first design meeting, the Landmark Homes Bay of Plenty team made the process feel simple and stress-free. 

“We loved choosing the details and seeing it all come together,” says Raewyne. “I wouldn’t hesitate to build with them again.”

That shared vision and open communication led to a result they are proud of – a home that is comfortable, connected to its surroundings and built to last. The judges at the 2025 House of the Year Awards agreed, awarding the project Regional Gold in the Bay of Plenty & Central Plateau, New Home $1.5–$2 million category.

While the accolade is a welcome recognition, for the Mullans the real reward is simply living here. “We just love it,” says Raewyne. “Everyone who visits comments on how beautiful it is.”