House at Otago Bay is built to withstand bushfires and harsh weather

This deliberately solid house at Otago Bay, Hobart is built to both frame the beautiful views of the bay but to also minimise exposure to the harsh winter weather and the potential risk of bushfires. With it’s dramatic sweeping roof, the architects Topology Studio, have accentuated the drama and connection of living on the water’s edge whilst providing privacy and protection.

I love the restrained materials palette of this house as it helps it feel connected and embedded in the landscape. What is your favourite part of this house?

Sustainability specs:
– Orientated to the north
– Retractable blinds protect the windows on the western facade
– Non-combustable material selection due to required fire rating of the building brick cladding, stone paving
– Burnished concrete flooring downstairs to capture and store heat from the low winter sun
– Thick masonry walls provide thermal mass to help heat the home and protection from solar radiation
– Locally sourced materials
– Large windows to provide ample sunlight

Inside, refined details and carefully selected materials produce a home that is textured and warm. Locally sourced masonry has been custom-manufactured to complement the tones of the setting, while limed-oak ceilings, warm timber joinery and polished concrete floors soften the light, creating a calm atmosphere from which to appreciate the natural landscape.