Waiheke Island Project — Featuring Manhattan from the Distilled Collection

High-End Coastal Living, Grounded in Natural Warmth

Nestled among lush greenery with sweeping views of the ocean, this Waiheke Island residence captures the essence of refined coastal living. Interiors designed by Sojo Design and built by Tightlines Developments, the home combines architectural precision with a deep connection to its natural surroundings. The project reflects a harmonious balance between contemporary luxury and relaxed coastal living.

At the heart of the interior lies Manhattan from Vienna Woods’ Distilled Collection.  A premium European oak flooring that delivers timeless elegance with a hint of urban sophistication.

Where the Outside Flows In

Framed by floor-to-ceiling glass and surrounded by native greenery, the home blurs the line between indoors and out. The gentle texture and natural grain of the Manhattan flooring echo the organic palette of Waiheke Island, creating harmony between architecture and landscape.

Soft, sunlit interiors transition effortlessly to outdoor spaces, grounding the design in nature. The flooring brings warmth to the modern form, inviting a sense of calm and connection throughout the home.

Chambord wide French Oak Flooring - Westmere - 18

The Perfect Foundation

Chosen for its ability to balance urban refinement with natural charm, Manhattan provides a strong foundation that enhances both the design and the way the space feels to live in. Its warm tone and versatile grain pattern ground the open-plan living areas in a sense of calm and cohesion, while its lacquered surface ensures durability and easy maintenance for high-traffic zones.  This makes Manhattan a natural fit for the Waiheke project, where understated luxury meets everyday functionality.

Chambord wide French Oak Flooring - Stairs
Chambord wide French Oak Flooring - Stairs

About Manhattan

Part of Vienna Woods’ Distilled Collection, Manhattan brings timeless elegance with a touch of urban chic. Inspired by the Manhattan cocktail, it carries the same sense of heritage, confidence, and classic appeal.

Equally at home in coastal retreats and contemporary city spaces, Manhattan flooring offers strength, style, and enduring beauty that elevates any interior.

Key Features

Refined Coastal Aesthetic: Warm tones and subtle texture complement natural surroundings.

European Oak Quality: Sustainably sourced and crafted for strength and longevity.

Versatile Design: Suitable for both contemporary and timeless interiors.

Durable Finish: Lacquered surface for easy care and lasting performance.

Project Partners

Design: @sojodesign

Build: @tightlinesdevelopments

Photography: @johnwilliamsphotography

The Distilled Collection celebrates craftsmanship, natural beauty, and the quiet sophistication of European oak.  Each plank is thoughtfully refined to showcase the material’s inherent character, designed to age gracefully while elevating any space it inhabits.

Case Study: A Serene Escape in Wanaka, Featuring Sazerac Prime Grade Flooring

Tucked away in the peaceful surrounds of Wanaka, this elegantly refined residence showcases the meticulous work of Auckland and Queenstown-based design practice Studio Studio and the exceptional craftsmanship of our European-made Sazerac planks in Prime Grade. This project embodies calm sophistication, where the flooring plays a defining role in shaping the tone and rhythm of the home.

Greenbelt House, showcasing Vienna Woods Sazerac Prime Grade Wood Flooring

The home is finished with Sazerac oak planks in a rare Prime Grade—the highest level of timber grading, where visible knots, splits and natural imperfections are nearly absent. The result is a smooth, understated surface that allows the natural grain to take centre stage. Crafted entirely in Lithuania, from harvesting to finishing, this engineered timber flooring reflects the strength of local European timber knowledge and production. The planks are 180mm wide, bringing a generous, contemporary scale to each room.

Greenbelt House, showcasing Vienna Woods Sazerac Prime Grade Wood Flooring

The tone of Sazerac is subtle yet warm, with creamy natural oak notes and a gentle luminosity that plays beautifully with the abundant light in the home. The name ‘Sazerac’ pays tribute to the world’s first recorded cocktail, symbolising the foundational nature of this product within our Distilled Collection. Just like its namesake, Sazerac flooring is complex, timeless, and enduringly appealing.

Greenbelt House Kitchen, showcasing Vienna Woods Sazerac Prime Grade Wood Flooring

Studio Studio, known for their clean lines, intentional simplicity, and soothing material palettes, have designed a home that feels composed and balanced. Their design approach prioritises mood and light, which pairs harmoniously with the soft elegance of the Sazerac flooring. Natural daylight shifts through the home, revealing different tonal qualities in the timber—from golden warmth to cool neutrality.

Greenbelt House Stairs, showcasing Vienna Woods Sazerac Prime Grade Wood Flooring
Greenbelt House Stairs, showcasing Vienna Woods Sazerac Prime Grade Wood Flooring
Greenbelt House Stairs, showcasing Vienna Woods Sazerac Prime Grade Wood Flooring

Photography by Biddi Rowley captures the tranquil atmosphere and subtle textures of this Wanaka home. The images tell a story of stillness, softness and cohesion, and the flooring plays a quiet but pivotal role in that narrative.

Greenbelt House, showcasing Vienna Woods Sazerac Prime Grade Wood Flooring
Greenbelt House, showcasing Vienna Woods Sazerac Prime Grade Wood Flooring

Product Highlights:

  • Prime Grade European Oak – minimal knots, ultra-clean aesthetic
  • Engineered timber boards made and finished in Lithuania
  • Wide 180mm plank for a modern scale and visual consistency
  • Natural, soft colouring that shifts with changing light
  • Part of the Vienna Woods Distilled Collection

Explore more about Sazerac or get in touch with us to discuss your project.

 

Herringbone Wood Floor for Heritage Apartment

In the heart of Auckland’s vibrant High Street, a heritage apartment sought a herringbone flooring that would honor its classic authenticity while meeting modern durability standards. The challenge was to blend timeless aesthetics with practicality, catering to both the apartment’s historical charm and its contemporary living requirements.

Natural Brown herringbone wood flooring pattern

Technical Details

The flooring chosen for this project is in the Whisky Sour colour, a part of our Vienna Woods Distilled Collection. Whisky Sour adds a touch of elegance and history to the home. Lithuanian oak is renowned for its durability and density, a result of the slow growth caused by the region’s average temperature of 8 degrees Celsius. This slow growth process allows the timber to develop a dense, solid structure with unique and intriguing colouring and grain profiles.

Natural dark herringbone wood flooring pattern

Design and Aesthetic

The design of the home is a perfect blend of modern and classic styles, with the herringbone parquet flooring adding a touch of timeless elegance. The client desired a flooring option that could withstand the rigors of daily life while complementing the apartment’s high ceilings. It was crucial to preserve the space’s historical integrity while enhancing its visual appeal with a luxurious finish.

Natural Brown herringbone wood flooring pattern

Fun Fact: The Whisky Sour Cocktail

Like so many spirits and cocktails, we can thank sailors for this delicious cocktail. The Whisky Sour was a perfect combination of citrus, to combat scurvy, and whisky to quench the sailor’s thirst. This cocktail embodies sophistication and a rich history, much like our Whisky Sour-coloured oak flooring.

Natural Brown herringbone wood flooring pattern

The installation of this herringbone flooring not only revitalized the apartment’s interior but also exceeded the client’s expectations in terms of aesthetics and performance. The lacquer finish provided a resilient surface that required minimal maintenance, ensuring long-lasting beauty without compromising on functionality.

Natural Brown herringbone wood flooring pattern

This project in Auckland’s High Street is a testament to the elegance and durability of our high-grade Lithuanian oak flooring. The herringbone parquet style adds a classic touch to the modern design of the apartment, creating a space that is both timeless and contemporary. The Whisky Sour colour enhances the home’s bright and airy feel, making it a truly inviting and stylish space.

For those looking to elevate their home with high-quality timber flooring in Auckland, Vienna Woods offers a range of options that combine sustainability, durability, and exceptional beauty. Our Distilled Collection oak flooring is a perfect choice for creating a stunning, long-lasting foundation for any home.

 

Natural Brown herringbone wood flooring pattern

Builder: Ashton Build

Photography: Mark Scowan

Flooring Consultant: Razvan

Natural Brown herringbone wood flooring pattern

Specifications:

Wood Species: Lithuanian Oak

Style: Herringbone flooring / Parquet

Grade: Light Feature

Colour: Whisky Sour (part of the Vienna Woods Distilled Collection)

Origin: Lithuania // made in Europe to meet strict European compliance standards

Durability: Highly durable due to slow-grown, dense structure

If you are interested in more information about Parquet Styles, check our knowledge sheet here.

Herringbone Flooring with old style leather armchair

Elegant Herringbone Floorboards in Auckland

A stunning project in Saint Heliers, Auckland, featuring a high-grade oak wood herringbone floorboards. The home boasts breathtaking views across the ocean and is filled with natural light, enhancing the beauty of our meticulously crafted flooring.

Spacious Open Plan Kitchen with European wood flooring

Technical Details

The flooring chosen for this project is in the Sazerac colour, a part of our Vienna Woods Distilled Collection. Named after the first-ever known cocktail, the Sazerac adds a touch of elegance and history to the home. Lithuanian oak is renowned for its durability and density, a result of the slow growth caused by the region’s average temperature of 8 degrees Celsius. This slow growth process allows the timber to develop a dense, solid structure with unique and intriguing colouring and grain profiles.

Light filled room wit stunning timber flooring

Design and Aesthetic

The design of the home is a perfect blend of modern and classic styles, with the herringbone floorboards adding a touch of timeless elegance. The Sazerac colour enhances the home’s airy and bright atmosphere, making it feel both warm and spacious. The unique grain patterns and subtle variations in the wood create a visual interest that complements the overall aesthetic of the home.

views from auckland home showcasing natural oak timber flooring

Fun Fact: The Sazerac Cocktail

The Sazerac cocktail, first created in New Orleans in the 19th century, is considered one of the oldest known cocktails. Traditionally made with rye whiskey, absinthe, sugar, and bitters, it embodies sophistication and a rich history, much like our Sazerac-coloured oak flooring.

open plan Auckland home with European oak hardwood flooring

Sustainable and High-Quality Flooring

At Vienna Woods, we pride ourselves on offering sustainable, high-quality timber flooring. Our Distilled Collection is responsibly sourced and carefully processed to ensure it meets the highest standards of durability and aesthetics. The slow growth of the oak trees in Lithuania results in a timber that is not only strong and long-lasting but also rich in character and charm.

open plan spacious kitchen lifted by oak wood floors

This project in Saint Heliers is a testament to the elegance and durability of our high-grade Lithuanian oak flooring. The herringbone parquet style adds a classic touch to the modern design of the home, creating a space that is both timeless and contemporary. The Sazerac colour enhances the home’s bright and airy feel, making it a truly inviting and stylish space.

For those looking to elevate their home with high-quality timber flooring in Auckland, Vienna Woods offers a range of options that combine sustainability, durability, and exceptional beauty. Our Distilled Collection oak flooring is a perfect choice for creating a stunning, long-lasting foundation for any home.

 

Photography and Presentation

To capture the essence of this stylish home, we collaborated with photographer Jo Currie, who typically specialises in fashion and portrait photography. This choice allowed us to highlight the flooring’s intricate details and the overall ambiance of the space in a way that truly reflects its beauty.

The home was photographed in the strong morning light, which cast long, dramatic shadows and added depth to the images. These photographs not only showcase the flooring but also convey the sophisticated style and design of the home.

Specifications:

Wood Species: Lithuanian Oak

Style: Parquet/ Herringbone Floorboards

Grade: NATUR // Ultra light feature

Colour: Sazerac (part of the Vienna Woods Distilled Collection)

Origin: Lithuania // made in Europe to meet strict European compliance standards

Durability: Highly durable due to slow-grown, dense structure

If you are interested in more information about Parquet Styles, check our knowledge sheet here.

Interested in herringbone floors?  Take a look at another herringbone floor in this Auckland herritage apartment.

Hardwood Floor in Matakana

Stunning Hardwood Floor Installation in Matakana

This Matakana residence showcases a beautifully crafted hardwood floor, adding warmth and sophistication to the space. The natural grain of the timber creates a unique aesthetic, bringing out the best of the home’s modern architecture. Hardwood flooring was chosen for its durability, longevity, and the timeless appeal it brings to the interiors.

Why Choose Hardwood Flooring for Your Home?

Hardwood floors are a popular choice for homeowners due to their many advantages:

  • Durability: Hardwood floors can last decades with proper care.
  • Easy maintenance: Regular cleaning and occasional refinishing keep them looking pristine.
  • Timeless appeal: Hardwood floors never go out of style, adding long-term value to your home.
  • Versatility: Available in a variety of wood types, finishes, and shades to match any décor.

Sustainable and High-Quality Materials

The hardwood floor used in this project was carefully selected to align with sustainability goals. Using responsibly sourced timber, this flooring option is both eco-friendly and high-quality, ensuring the home has a lasting, environmentally conscious foundation.

Craftsmanship and Attention to Detail

This Matakana home features expertly installed hardwood floors that highlight the natural beauty of the wood. Each plank was meticulously placed to ensure a seamless, cohesive look. The result is a sophisticated finish that complements the home’s design while adding a luxurious touch to the living spaces.

More About the Flooring:

Manhattan is an Oak timber floor part of the Vienna Woods Distilled Collection.  The Distilled Collection is a unique range of incredibly dense, hard-wearing wooden floors sourced from Lithiania.  Lithuanian oak is really slow-growing, giving an interesting grain profile and incredibly dense timber.  The Distilled collection is made in Europe to meet the highest European standards of health and durability.  Certifications include FSC sustainability and a zero VOC rating for volitile organic compounds.  Assitionally, no formeldahyde is added during any of the processing.

The Distilled Collection is designed to accomodate spaces of sophistication, solace and sharing.  A space where someone can enjoy a peaceful moment or a celebration with others.  In line with that sentiment, each colour option is named after a classic cocktail.

 

Options in Distilled include wide planks, standard planks and parquet options such as chevron and herringbone.

Pina Colada in Whitford

Nestled in the picturesque landscape just south of Auckland, in the charming locale of Whitford, stands a new build that embodies the epitome of sophistication and elegance. This project, set against a backdrop of breathtaking views, was conceptualised to exude a dark, smoky ambiance that is both luxurious and inviting.

The homeowners, driven by a deep passion for exquisite design and detail, have transformed this space into a true labour of love. Their vision was brought to life through meticulous planning and an unyielding commitment to quality.

Central to this stunning home is the flooring, which plays a pivotal role in setting the tone for the entire space. Finished with a high-quality hard wax oil, the flooring not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures durability and longevity. This choice reflects the homeowner’s dedication to excellence and their understanding of the importance of foundational elements in interior design.

Every inch of this magnificent home in Whitford speaks volumes about the owners’ taste and the high standards they set for their living space. It stands as a testament to the beauty that can be achieved when passion and precision come together in home design.

Engineered Timber Flooring: Vienna Woods // Distilled Collection // Oak Piña