Conceived as a ‘fold in the landscape’, this home is a part of the hillside, rather than a structure that dominates it. Completely off-grid, it is a retreat that immerses the inhabitants (literally) into the land around them. The initial sketch was a single-level, single-row of rooms facing out over the river below. The single level allows for full wheelchair access to every part of the house including decks, storage areas, driveways and the earth roof. The single row gives every room a panoramic view of the landscape.

The rooms flow into each other and act as one larger space. They can also be closed down as required. When open, the landscape is invited in across the length of the home. Each room spills out to the deck and landscape beyond, effectively doubling the area of the house. When looking back at the house, the twisting facade reflects the undulating landscape that the building is now a part of.

Sustainability is always a focus in our work, designing to be off-grid makes it a practical necessity. Energy Efficiency is essential. We have achieved an 8.5 star energy efficiency rating with a range of features:

Built into hillside – the soil wrapping around and over the building regulates the temperature internally while shielding against both hot and cold extremes of the local climate.
Solar passive design – the house is oriented slightly east of north to maximise solar gains in winter. The earth roof above extends out to block summer sun.
Thermal mass – the polished concrete floor soaks up the heat from the sunshine during the day and releases it throughtout the night. The solar-powered hydronic heating within the slab acts as a booster to this when it is overcast for extended periods.
Crossflow Ventilation – The underground Laundry/Garage act as a reservoir of cool air which is pulled through the house by the hot air rising off the deck negating the need for air conditioning.
The interior material palette contrasts the hard, monochromatic concrete exterior with the softness and warmth of timber. The plywood walls and ceiling provide space for insulation for thermal performance and to soften echoes from hard surfaces. The shifting patterns of aggregate enliven the polished concrete floor, adding subtle textures to the mix. This concrete is echoed in the raw concrete structure exposed around the fireplace to demonstrate the strength of the building. Dark plywood joinery contrasts light coloured walls. The plywood comes to life in the dramatic feature wall inspired by the lines of the surround valleys and mountains.

UPDATE We are proud to announce that this project has been featured on Grand Designs Australia, Season 10, Episode 01. It debuted on Foxtel on Thursday, 5th May 2022.