Couple Builds Dream Home After Parkinson's Diagnosis

After receiving a Parkinson's diagnosis, most people might scale back their dreams. Simon and Tracey Challies did the opposite.

The former Ryman Healthcare managing director stepped down from his role in 2017 following his diagnosis. Rather than retreat, he and Tracey decided to build something extraordinary: a place where Simon could spend less time working and more time truly living.

They connected with architect Darren O'Neil, who had already envisioned a bold, contemporary design for a site in Fendalton, Christchurch's traditionally English-style suburb. The couple fell in love with his vision immediately.

"Simon wasn't going to be spending as much time at work, but more at home, so we thought it would be nice to have the space, and something beautiful to look at," Tracey explains. The result is Cantilever House, a stunning 700-square-meter glass pavilion that O'Neil playfully describes as having "a tongue and cheek reference to a childhood James Bond-style 007 home."

The two-year build was designed with Simon's needs in mind. A lift provides easy access between floors, and massive electronic sliding doors open the living spaces to nature on both sides. The home sits on sprawling grounds with mature trees, a swimming pool, and direct access to the picturesque Wairarapa Stream.

O'Neil says his team had complete creative freedom, allowing for a design focused on simplicity and purity of form. Timaru bluestone anchors the open spaces, while the minimalist interior creates a sense of calm.

Why This Inspires

The Challies family turned a health challenge into an opportunity to create something meaningful. Their two-year building journey became "an amazing experience" that connected them with contractors who "fell in love with the place."

Simon has remained active despite his diagnosis, investing in health supplements company Nutrient Rescue and founding consultancy Lone Nut Enterprises. He was closely involved with BrainTree Wellness Centre, supporting others with neurological diseases, before stepping back last year to focus more on himself.

"It has been like an oasis in the city," Simon says of their home. "We love the aspect and the garden and the mature trees."

Now, as the couple spends more time at their Arrowtown holiday home, they're selling their architectural masterpiece. But the house stands as a testament to choosing beauty and possibility when life takes an unexpected turn.

Sometimes the best response to difficulty is to build something beautiful.