A huge thank you to Incidental Architecture for featuring our summerhouse! Their article beautifully highlights the design and sustainability behind our eco-retreat in Wollombi Valley.

See the full article on Incidental Architecture here.

It is a working Alpaca breeding farm with some accommodation for guests. This project involved the design of a linear two-bedroom guest pavilion looking North over the beautiful dam and paddocks, with the singular intention of connecting the inhabitants to nature.

To this end, everything in the project is consciously about connection to, and preservation of, the environment. The environment is joyful, yet also harsh at times. Summers can be hot, winters can be cold. There is a lingering background risk of bushfire as with all naturally vegetated areas.

The house is small (115m2), sits off the ground so water can flow under, yet low enough below the approach to appear inconspicuous and private. Entry is through a central breezeway with a floor that steps down to the North with view over the dam and a deck which hangs out over the edge. Cool air is drawn up off the water to help passively moderate the temperature. Eels, turtles and fish inhabit the dam. North orientation is an obvious, yet critical move. Large overhangs shade windows in summer and let winter sun into all rooms. Large eaves also protect the building and allow windows to be open in most weather.

The house is entirely off grid for power, water and sewer. Electricity is generated on site. There is no AC. All rooms have ceiling fans, and there is a slow combustion wood stove in the living room. The house is divided into small zones that can each be heated individually.

The house is largely a timber building. A variety of hardwood species have been used according to availability and purpose. Doors and windows are all recycled blackbutt. Feature grade stringybark floors were salvaged from a builder’s auction. Cladding and linings are all in locally sourced White Mahogany.

Notably, the building work and the joinery was all done on site by the owner, using only local trades where needed.

One of the most profound questions that arose in the design process is that of what is ‘really necessary’. What things could be removed from the building that may paradoxically lead to greater joy and connection to the environment ?

For information and accommodation visit https://www.littlevalleyfarm.com.au

Project Team: Matt Elkan, Sam Horspool, Owen Kelly, Lauren Maley

Builder: Euan Wilcox (Owner Builder)

Structural Engineer: Mike Jefferiss

Landscape: Lindy Hulton Larson

Photographs: Milou Hofman https://www.milouhofman.com