Immersed in Nature – Common Kosci by Alan Powell

Located in the alpine outback of the Snowy Mountains, Common Kosci offers an intimate experience of place, enabled by luxury design. Crafted by architect Alan Powell in collaboration with local builder Aaron Brown, the cabin provides an attractive means of immersing oneself in nature.

Speckled gum trees, hiking trails and fresh, clean air define the setting of Common Kosci. The natural setting is familiar to builder Aaron Brown, whose fond memories of the environment bolster the design concept for the cabin proposed by Sydney-based architect, Alan Powell. While developing the feeling of connection between families and nature – in a manner that echoes the experience of camping – Common Kosci benefits from modern domestic comforts that put residents at ease. Externally, the structure of the cabin presents as a simple black box, indicating the penchant for minimalism and mindful living that is expressed throughout the home.

While developing the feeling of connection between families and nature – in a manner that echoes the experience of camping – Common Kosci benefits from modern domestic comforts that put residents at ease.

In response to the requirements of a family on holiday, Common Kosci is fitted with a range of luxury features. A sophisticated mud room positioned at the entry of the cabin separates shoes, coats and sporting equipment from the primary living spaces, preventing clutter and dirt from building in areas of re-spite. The kitchen is complemented by modern technology and a large kitchen island, encouraging residents to enjoy the pro-cess of cooking and gather around the native timber benchtop. Multiple nooks are integrated into the design of the home to facilitate moments of privacy across the 80-square-metre footprint. Outside, a deck, firepit and hammock allow residents to create outdoor memories during both day and night.

A strong understanding of the local climate sees Common Kosci well-equipped for cold weather. OSB internal timber clad-ding is used as a sustainable, low VOC means of sealing in the warm air, while floor-to-ceiling double-glazed windows maximise the visual and thermal effects of the north-facing architecture. In addition to softness underfoot, wool carpets provide insulation, working in union with Nobu panel heaters, a gas fireplace and underfloor heating to establish a comfortable thermal environment. In the evening, handmade pendants illuminate the interior with warm washes of light.

A strong understanding of the local climate sees Common Kosci well-equipped for cold weather.

As the second joint endeavour of Alan Powell and Aaron Brown, Common Kosci reveals an emerging creative signature. Carefully crafted, the cabin presents understated, luxury de-sign as removing the barriers to connection, allowing people to truly appreciate both where they are and who they are with.