CONTEMPLATION HOUSE

Set in the hills in northern NSW the house has a wondrous view of the sea and sky, and sits on a hill set in a private rural and rainforest setting. The changing phases of nature change the experience of living in this house from day to day.

The owners are very interested in Indigenous cultures and these philosophies are reflected in the design. The idea of the life of a man being a circle from childhood to childhood, and of connectivity with nature was a starting point for the design.

The planning for the house is generated using these philosophical ideas, and the journey through the house is circular in nature. The views through the house are never static, and constantly orient and inform you. The scale of the house is intimate and engaging.

The living area responds to the northern sun and the easterly views to the ocean. It forms a protective wing to the north-easterly winds. The house is planned in a U shape around a central garden area. A contemplation space, which is at the core of the house, has also become the heart of the house. It is a space to sit and just to be, a source of stillness and quietness, a place to reflect and think.

This is an “off the grid” house. Materials reflect ideas of connection to land and sustainment of life.

LOCATION

Byron Bay

COMPLETION

2020

PHOTOGRAPHY

Dianna Snape

Michael Nicholson

Martin Mischkulnig

AWARDS

2022 ArchDaily Building Of The Year, Shortlisted

2021 RAIA Residential Architecture Awards, Commendation

2021 RAIA Interior Architecture Awards, Commendation