Projects
Alpine Mansion
Wanaka, New Zealand
Key specification
Surface Area: 950 sq. m
Roof assembly: Cold ventilated roof system.
Material: 13 mm Serpentine schist roof tiles
Sheet-metalwork:
- 0.80 mm copper ventilated fascias, ventilated ridge caps, valley, gutter valley, drip edges, chimney and vent flashing, chimney caps.
- 0.60 mm copper balconies trays.
Water drainage system:
- 0.80 mm half round copper gutter 330 mm and accessories.
- 0.70 mm copper downpipes and accessories.
Overview
The roof design is inspired by European Alpine architecture, combining functionality, durability, and refined aesthetics suited to mountainous lanscape.
Materials are chosen to withstand severe conditions, including strong winds, heavy snow loads, high rainfall, and frequent freeze–thaw cycles, while harmonising with the warm, rich tones of the robust cedar roof structure. These natural, fully recyclable materials are combined with modern ventilation and insulation system to enhance indoor comfort and resilience in a changing climate.
Serpentine schist, used for centuries across the European Alps, is the primary roofing material. Its distinctive beauty and outstanding mechanical properties make it ideally suited to demanding environments, delivering a roof built to last for generations.
The roof’s architectural finishing elements are custom-designed and crafted from premium Italian copper (0.80 mm) with brazed joints for greater strength and longevity. Proprietary 500 g copper brackets are fixed directly to the rafters to support the gutter, ensuring exceptional security and durability.
A cold-ventilated roof system was designed to manage heat, moisture, and airflow through four coordinated components: smart vapour control, high-performance insulation, breathable waterproof protection, and continuous passive ventilation. This build-up protects the roof structure, improves energy efficiency, and supports a healthier, more stable indoor environment.
The terrace pans are made from 0.60 mm copper trays installed using the flat-seam technique, avoiding the need for future replacement.
