The dramatic topography, bush setting of the Obi Obi Valley and Kondalilla Falls; and diverse climatic conditions of the hinterland were the driving forces for this design by Sparks Architects.
A simple pavilion form was adopted which allowed for a rational approach to planning and structure whilst permitting the varying depths of bush view to form the backdrop to the patterns of daily life.
Precast concrete rainwater tanks as thermal buffers and spatial dividers.
The tanks are partially buried in the site to allow for small plywood ‘bed nests’ to sit above them, regaining the lost space of the tanks footprint.
Protected by the robust outer shell of masonry, steel and glass, the tanks and their hoop pine nests become ‘precious objects’.
The draped roof of the building, a subtle echo of the site’s topography, allows for appropriate pitch and northern orientation for the photovoltaic array, direct rainwater feed to the internal tanks and appropriate shading for winter and summer sun angles.
The deceptively small building is a pragmatic response to the owner’s desire to live a simple sustainable life whilst enjoying the virtues of a very beautiful setting.
Project Details
Completion date – 2011
Project Team
Architecture
Sparks Architects
Sunshine Coast-based Sparks Architects believe buildings that seek a balance between the natural and built environments, through form, materiality, and integrated energy systems will also facilitate spaces that guide us, invigorate us, rest us, seduce us, and inspire us.
The practice is led by Dan Sparks.
Photography
Christopher Frederick Jones
Christopher is an experienced architectural and interiors photographer based in Brisbane, Australia.
Photo Gallery
Click on a thumbnail image to enlarge.
Design © 2020 Sparks Architects. All Rights Reserved.| Images © 2020 Christopher Frederick Jones. All Rights Reserved.
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