C House by Source Architects

Nestled in the rugged landscape of New South Wales’ central west, C House by Source Architects harmoniously reflects the nearby cultivated orchards and the pristine Mount Canobolas State Conservation Area.

With its breathtaking vistas, the site carries a deep personal significance for its owners, who spent their formative years nearby. Designed to be a robust family home, C House balances the needs of an active family with a penchant for entertaining and a deep appreciation for the diverse beauty of the site. The architectural narrative of the residence begins with a dramatic intervention in the landscape, bedding itself firmly into the site before opening generously to its surroundings. The external form carves a sculpted slice into the earth, trimmed meticulously with stone. This excavation forms the foundation for a substantial linear concrete base, above which green roofs flourish, softening the structure and integrating it into its natural surroundings. The northern end of the house diverges from the linear form, featuring expansive timber-framed windows to capture panoramic views. Timber batten-clad forms emerge from the concrete, adding texture and warmth to the facade.

The upper-level transitions into more of a sculptural entity, positioned playfully above the concrete base.

The upper-level transitions into more of a sculptural entity, positioned playfully above the concrete base. Twisting and turning its axes, the home heroes three key views – the distant mountain, the familial property and the bushland that climbs the hill – which are each captured and celebrated separately. Finished in a smooth, muted white render, this level contrasts sharply with the surrounding bush, creating a striking visual dichotomy. The green roofs below cascade with planting, softening the concrete base and enhancing the visual impact of the pristine, white upper structure.

Inside, polished concrete floors create a continuous flow throughout the home. White, curved walls blend effortlessly into steel balustrades, forming a sinuous, sculptural void for the stair to sit within. This central space not only provides vertical circulation but also serves as a focal point embodying a blend of solidity and lightness, in stark contrast to views from upper floor landings. Ceiling planes also curve and twist, with dramatic sweeps to direct and bounce light into living areas.

Twisting and turning its axes, the home heroes three key views – the distant mountain, the familial property and the bushland that climbs the hill – which are each captured and celebrated separately.

The kitchen features an emerald green quartzite, offset against light-toned timber. The soft white walls continue, blending into the overhead rangehood shroud, heightened further with moments of brass in tapware, handles and feature lighting to create a calm and delicate response. Bathrooms continue the theme of materiality and texture, utilising microcement to echo external concrete finishes while providing warmth and depth.

C House by Source Architects is more than just a dwelling; it is in constant conversation with its environment and responds to the land and the personal history of its inhabitants. By integrating robust materials with thoughtful design, it achieves a delicate balance, rooted firmly in the earth while reaching out to embrace the sky and the views beyond.

Architecture and interior design by Source Architects. Build by L-Con Building and Construction. Engineering by Cook and Roe Structural Engineers. Timber windows by Dengate Joinery.