![Book Flatlay Cover Front Transparent Trio[1]](https://d31dpzy4bseog7.cloudfront.net/media/2024/06/07080212/Book_Flatlay_Cover_Front_Transparent_Trio1.png)
The Ultimate Removed Retreat – Camping Ground Berry by Casey Brown Architecture
In its robustness and near impenetrability, Camping Ground Berry stands steadfast against the elements of its siting. An evolution of a previous iteration, Casey Brown Architecture has developed and adapted the previous design to respond to its new context and be the ultimate removed retreat.
As a place to retreat, Camping Ground Berry not only is removed in its location and siting but its composition of simplified and primitive elements is a reconnection back to base principles. Located in Berry, the structure overlooks the nearby coast in the distance and is both an immersive experience as it is about disconnection. As an evolved iteration of its predecessor in Mudgee, Casey Brown Architecture worked closely with owner and builder Jeffery Broadfield to reimagine the sculptural shelter in a way that responds to the new context and its prevailing climate, while retaining the essence and character of the original build. From the adaption of the previous design, Camping Ground Berry stands as a well-honed revision with an unwavering robustness, offering a balance to the ever-changing landscape.
As an evolved iteration of its predecessor in Mudgee, Casey Brown Architecture worked closely with owner and builder Jeffery Broadfield to reimagine the sculptural shelter in a way that responds to the new context and its prevailing climate, while retaining the essence and character of the original build.
Engineered by Cantilever and with specialist copper work by Mark Preston, Camping Ground Berry was built on site in a workshop on the same property. Sitting in an elevated position surrounded by green rolling hills and rural pastures, the select location allows expansive views outward. Similar in form and its comprising elements as the original, this new iteration takes on a heightened refinement. Clad in copper, the structure is designed to be bushfire proof and to withstand gale-force winds, driving rain and any charging livestock whose curiosity it might tempt. Independent, the structure is self-supporting, with its own composting toilet and shower in a secondary form to the rear, which utilises gravity to provide water from the rainwater tank overhead.
Split over two levels, the upper floor is the more passive retreat and sleeping space and is accessed via a ladder. The lower level is the living and contemplative space that has a more direct connection to the surrounding landscape. Similar to the original design, the sides of the structure can be winced outward, opening the enclosure and providing an opportunity for full immersion, while still being protected from the elements. Internally, the oiled ironbark timber provides a warming embrace, while the photovoltaic panels on the exterior provide lighting and electricity as needed. On its mere 3m x 3m footprint, the vertical stacking of function and the deliberate stripping of the unnecessary allows room for meditative engagement with the surrounds.
