Cowaramup family home

This impeccably built project created a warm and welcoming solar passive home for a young couple and two gorgeous kids. As a designer and project manager, I was humbled by the dedication and skill with which my novice owner-builder client resolved some tough site challenges worthy of television’s ‘Grand Designs.’

the brief

A contemporary skillion roof design with timber-framed walls, simple enough for my clients to tackle the build themselves on a modest budget.

the site

A rocky, sloping bushland site with fantastic water and vineyard views in a picturesque corner of the Margaret River region.   

the design

Northern highlight windows and split roof for passive solar heat gain and ambient natural lighting to raked timber ceilings.

Stacker doors give uninterrupted views over the lake with direct sunlight filtered through the trees.

We invested lots of time and effort in optimising floor levels and positioning windows to maximise the astonishing views.

the materials

External claddings are a mixture of painted Hardies cement board cladding, painted brick to the garage front and recycled jarrah boards.

Decking and steps are composite, low-maintenance boards with high fire rating properties.

Floors and benchtops are polished concrete.

the result

An earth-friendly dream home for four lovely humans. A light-filled, stylish home that nestles comfortably into its beautiful, tranquil setting. A testament to the talent and tenacity of its owner-builders.