This house is located in a particularly dramatic part of Australia’s landscape. Our approach seeks a harmonious synthesis between our clients’ semi-retired but active lifestyle and the visual, ecological and spiritual attributes of the landscape.
The site sits at the eastern base of the Dorrigo Plateau, not far from the aptly named Never Never Creek. It has views to the west and north of the plateau escarpments, and to the east and south over traditional farming country. The single-level house is located on a small, elevated area of the site, affording beautiful views and access to breezes around a substantial existing tree.
It is arranged like a pinwheel in plan, with living areas at the centre framing key views and wings that accommodate bedrooms and activity spaces. These spaces reach out to the wider landscape and form more intimate sheltered courtyards. It will have a low profile, with a lightweight structure generally, secured with heavier masonry walls at the core. The house is also designed to be very low maintenance, adaptable for visits from time to time by the extended family, as well as being a lifelong home for our clients.
