Conscious Resolve – Deepwater House by AHA Studio

Deepwater House is imagined as a combination of gathering and retreat areas, featuring vast grounds akin to urban parkland. AHA Studio challenges traditional residential norms with an adaptive and innovative approach, acknowledging the importance of architecture to embrace social and environmental responsibility.

The owners’ unique lifestyle and vision for engaging with the landscape are captured in the design of Deepwater House. Situated in Perth, the residence’s elongated form makes the most of the spacious site. “The design of a home needs to exert a sense of security, warmth and nurturing for the owners,” says Andrew Hagemann, principal of AHA Studio. Being the final home in a trilogy designed by the architect, a consistent approach was applied across all, reflecting the core principles of the practice. “In all cases, we have explored the idea of unified structure and finish without the need for applied finishes,” adds Andrew. “Materials are left in their suppled state and expressed truly, with each material being coded based on their functional zone and use – the result is architecture that is very robust and raw.”

“The design of a home needs to exert a sense of security, warmth and nurturing for the owners,” says Andrew Hagemann, principal of AHA Studio.

By adopting an expressive approach to the home’s structure and composition, the chosen materials were carefully selected to align with the climate and orientation of the site. Prioritising a reduction in energy use, integrating the landscape to soften the built elements was key. The abode is divided into three pavilion forms, employing materials such as concrete block and timber to ensure durability against the elements. Sustainability considerations also extend to the dwelling’s size and the selection of low-maintenance finishes, minimising the need for upkeep or replacement over time. Conscious efforts to lessen building material waste and its environmental impact were integral throughout the project.

“Sustainability should also be a measure of what we need, not what we want,” adds Andrew. His understanding of a home’s role to function effectively also influenced the design of each space throughout, accommodating opportunities for connection and privacy. “I believe that sustainability comes back to this idea of nurturing,” adds Andrew. “The house needs to nurture its occupants. It needs to promote healthy interactions, it needs to welcome its guests, it needs to respond to things such as use, climate, security and a sense of mutual prosperity. That’s sustainability. The material aspects of the home are merely there to support these three main themes.”

The abode is divided into three pavilion forms, employing materials such as concrete block and timber to ensure durability against the elements.

AHA Studio presents Deepwater House not merely as a residence but as a multifaceted living environment. Delving deeper into what defines a home and its potential to enrich daily life, the outcome is a responsible, contemporary example.