Home In The Urban Forest

The property sits within a protected area of delightful bush. Strict covenants governed the footprint, height, and access for a dwelling on the site.

The brief required a compact, comfortable home for a couple to enjoy the peaceful glade like setting. Drawing inspiration from back country huts, two simple rectangular forms clad in corrugated metal sit lightly on the site, connected by an entrance linkway with split levels to suit the gently contoured topography.

The living wing is a refreshingly simple space, with a functional, cleverly designed kitchen backing onto the south wall to maximize area. A high raking ceiling adds volume to the room, making it feel more spacious than the plan dimensions suggest. Critically, this height also allows high windows to capture the precious sunlight that would otherwise be lost behind the lush bush.

The bedroom wing is offset from the living wing to fit around existing trees and provide a slightly different outlook. The main bedroom is complemented by a smaller room that doubles as guest room and TV room. A small nook adjacent to the entry provides a well-used office space. The raking ceiling and fanlights are recreated in the bedroom wing, giving continuity to the design.