Sculptural wells draw sunshine into reclaimed timber home

The sculptural forms of Light Mine house are three massive light wells which draw shafts of sunshine and starlight into the home. These sculptural light wells and the building’s exterior have been clad in reclaimed timber from a swamp. On a clear night you can gaze up at the stars from the master bed through one of the light wells and the other two wells have been placed to draw light into the lounge room and dining room.

Designed by Crosson Architects, the light wells reference abandoned gold mines which used to be prevalent in the surrounding area, with the shape inverted and extending to the sky which mines sunlight and views of the night sky instead.

The home is designed to draw in as much sunlight as possible and the stepped floor plan follows the movement of the sun and the large expanses of glazing brings in ample daylight and connects the beachfront home to the stunning views of Kuaotunu Bay.

Sustainability specs:
– Oversized light shafts topped with skylights
– Clad in reclaimed timber from Totara swamp
– Passive design, the stepped design follows the movement of the sun
– Deep overhangs protect the home from summer solar gain
– Large windows to naturally light the home
– Timber cladding used extensively throughout
– Modestly sized

The social organisation of the plan is relaxed and loose, appropriate for retreat, and laid out as a series of parts able to either be lived in privately and independently or opened up to connect the buildings and enliven the outdoor space between.

Varying heights and positions of the shafts break up the form on the ridgeline establishing an identity and interest. The house steps forward and back, the plan mapping the movement of the sun. Deep overhangs provide protection from the summer sun and entry of the winter sun. The decks fore and aft allow spatial extension into the landscape.