• Location
    Birregurra
  • Status
    Complete
  • Type
    Residential
  • Size
    24,580sqm
  • Internal Area
    190sqm
  • Team
    Rob Kennon, Jack Leishman
  • Collaborators
    JMBush Construction , NJG Building Surveyor, Meyer Consulting
  • Photographer
    Derek Swalwell
  • Publications
    Pasture of Plenty
  • Tags
    Housing, Landscape, Regional, Repetition, Background building, Rural Vernacular

Drawing upon the logic of an Australian rural vernacular, this project is defined by its simplicity. Its value is not derived from layered meaning or referential concepts, it deals instead with the more fundamental principles of architecture; environment and shelter.

The site is located just outside of Birregurra, on a grassy plain surrounded by sheep grazing paddocks. Mature trees line the horizon in the distance as the site slopes down to a dam and valley. In this part of Victoria, the sky is vast, and the winds are strong. Protection and relief from the exposed, and sometimes harsh, conditions were important considerations for this project.

Our approach draws upon the logic of the Australian ‘slab hut’; an 1800’s dwelling typical of rural areas. The rectangular plan, pitched roof and clip-on verandah was – and still is – a climatically appropriate, efficient and economical way to build. These concerns (efficiency, buildability, and the availability of materials) remain relevant today and are well aligned with the client’s interest in sustainability and local produce.

[4] The design takes the profile of this rural 'slab hut' typology and extrudes it along the contours of the site. Windows to the north and south to capture views of the valley and facilitate cross-flow ventilation. The 37m stretch of north facing roof provides substantial capacity for solar gain, facilitating the client’s future goals for off-the-grid living
[1] The site is located just outside of Birregurra, on a grassy plain surrounded by sheep grazing paddocks. Mature trees line the horizon as the site slopes down to a dam and valley
[2] The design draws upon the logic of the Australian ‘slab hut’ - an 1800’s dwelling typical of rural areas. The rectangular plan, pitched roof and clip-on verandah was – and still is – a climatically appropriate, efficient and economical way to build
1/3
[3]
[5] Proprietary pine trusses make up three-quarters of the roof structure, allowing the more expensive LVL to be contained to the kitchen and living areas
In referencing an Australian rural vernacular, we were able to imbue the project with a sense of genericness - a level of anonymity that suited the client’s brief. From the nearby road, this house is not obviously new or expressive of a particular Architect, it speaks more of longevity and the environment in which it sits; a true background building

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