Q: What were the guiding principles behind the design of this project?
A: The design was driven by two core principles: a thoughtful response to the environment and a pursuit of elegant simplicity. We aimed to create a home that seamlessly integrated with its surroundings while also standing as an independent architectural statement.

Q: How did the home’s location on a windswept hillside influence the design?
A: The hillside location presented unique challenges, particularly in dealing with the strong prevailing winds from the ocean. Our design needed to maximize transparency to capture the panoramic ocean views while also providing protection from these winds. The solution was an X-shaped structure that not only allowed for unobstructed views but also created sheltered outdoor pockets within the primary building form.

Q: How did you address the client’s requirements for the home?
A: The client had two main requirements: unobstructed views and protection from the prevailing winds. Additionally, they needed a flexible layout for entertaining, with clearly defined internal zones to separate different functions. The X-shaped floor plan effectively addressed these needs, allowing the client to customize spaces according to their specific requirements.

Q: What was the significance of the “flying roof” concept in the design?
A: Simplicity was central to the home’s concept, and the “flying roof” was a key element in achieving this. We designed two overlapping solid concrete roofs that cantilever along the perimeter of the home, with extended corners tapering up to a 100mm bullnose. This detail gives the roof a sense of lightness, contributing to the overall simplicity and elegance of the design.

Q: How did you ensure the home integrated seamlessly with its environment?
A: We made a strategic decision to position the house slightly lower than the site’s crest, which allowed it to blend with the natural topography rather than dominate it. We also sited the new home at the same level as the previous one to minimize environmental impact. By using on-site soil for all earth-moving activities, we preserved the natural surroundings, which was a crucial aspect of the design.

Q: What were the main challenges faced during the project, particularly regarding structural engineering?
A: The most significant challenge involved the structural engineering for the solid concrete roof. Balancing the architectural design of the eave and roof profile with the structural requirements required extensive planning, coordination, and collaboration among the design team, engineers, and builders.

Q: How did the collaboration with the landscape architect influence the final design?
A: The landscape architect played a vital role in ensuring a smooth transition from the house to the garden and the untouched landscape beyond. This close collaboration allowed us to achieve a seamless integration of the home with its natural surroundings, enhancing the overall aesthetic and functionality of the property.

Q: How does the client feel about the completed home?
A: The clients are thrilled with the final result, stating that the home has exceeded their expectations in terms of both aesthetics and practicality. They particularly appreciate how well the house is zoned, allowing for flexible entertainment options, and how effectively the home functions in Red Hill’s cold, windy environment.

Q: What aspect of the project is the practice most proud of?
A: We are incredibly proud of how the home enhances the clients’ quality of life. The project exemplifies our commitment to thoughtful design and simplicity, which, through close collaboration with all involved, resulted in a home that the clients truly love living in.