Muted Recession – Countershade by Finnis Architects

A considered response to place, Countershade is formed by a series of curated gestures that sit harmoniously among the natural surroundings. Finnis Architects draws inspiration from the adjacent established nature reserve, referencing a similar warmth whilst camouflaging the mass in an intersection of light and shadow.

Situated looking out over the reserve it abuts, Countershade directs views toward the canopies and foliage of the nearby landscape. This reinforces the home as a place of rest, secluded from the surrounding neighbours. Although set within a residential setting in Mount Waverly, the proximity and alignment to the dense native flora affords the home a feeling of being in a rural environment. In responding to the unique condition, this resulting palette and form are composed as a supplement to the native elements, taking on similar tones to create a recessive counter of the form in place. Finnis Architects celebrates the siting and weaves reminders of that fortune throughout.

Encased in a dark outer layer that reduces its visual impact, the home sits as a complement to the surrounds.

Encased in a dark outer layer that reduces its visual impact, the home sits as a complement to the surrounds. Despite being a multi-level home, the overall mass is perceptively lessened through the select materiality used and a regularity of the outer elements. A clear rhythm between open and closed gestures ensures the home feels like an organic addition to the surrounds.

The structure’s relationship with both light and shade is important to how it operates. The interior balances warmth and openness and louvred window dressings allow for the control of incoming light. Softened by the movement of the nearby tree canopies and foliage, the openings become animated throughout the day, responding to the climate and inviting the dynamic nature of the surroundings into the everyday experience.

Despite being a multi-level home, the overall mass is perceptively lessened through the select materiality used and a regularity of the outer elements.

By using a darkened approach that is balanced with a connection to light, Countershade is embedded with a sense of drama. Finnis Architects combines a deeply biophilic response with opportunities that combine theatre and retreat.