Architecture Style

2008 RAIA Residential Architecture Award.

The 18 hectare site was home to the same family for almost 30 years. The original home was subdivided and sold which presented an opportunity for a new home and a chance to reflect the changing values and lifestyle of the new owner.

On the site exists a large dam which was once the centre of entertainment for the children and the water supply to the fruit trees. The new home is entered across a large pond to an outdoor room which takes in the striking views. The rest of the house wraps around a decorative courtyard garden which features tomatoes, herbs and other vegetables. All the elements of the home, living, working and relaxing engage with both the garden and the view.

The home itself is far more environmentally conscious than its predecessor, with low energy lighting predominant, solar water heating, over 60 000 litres of water storage, and built with timber taken from the site and from fire breaks cut through the bushland. The timber was milled and finished on site and makes up all of the exposed timber as well as the flooring and much of the sub structure. The house is a reflection in miniature of the workings, life, and history of the farm and the family that continue to enjoy its offerings.