Designed as a simple retreat with the flexibility to accommodate a range of different users from a sole occupant to holidaying couples or to a larger family, this house and associated ‘Bunky’ explores a minimalist design approach with a simple but efficient floor plan that eliminates wasted space in passageways and separates sleeping areas for maximum privacy and serenity.  The Northern aspect maximises the uninterrupted views down the valley and to the sea and the East West axis embraces the principles of passive solar design for natural heating, cooling and cross ventilation. The siting of the house takes maximum advantage of the large deep block and natural vegetation to the Southern end of the site allowing privacy without blinds to block the views. The house is essentially an elevated viewing platform that floats above the ground, surrounded by the beauty of the valley and the abundant local and indigenous fauna of the site. High level glazing around the perimeter gives the impression of the roof also floating above the superstructure, creating a sense of lightness, airiness, and connection to nature, like a campsite tent but with the comforts of home.

Architecture & Interior Design: Thomson Rossi

• Location Second Valley, South Australia
• Client Private
• Completed Design Concept