A Protective Nod – Highvale House by Alexandra Buchanan Architecture

Lightly engaging with the undulating terrain below, Highvale House sits teetering and immersed within a removed and dense landscape setting. Alexandra Buchanan Architecture proposes an aptly fitting addition among the surrounding vernacular of singular buildings and dwellings, as a nod to the rural Australian shed.

Taking advantage of the opportune siting of the allotment, Highvale House is imagined as a home of elevated shelter, taking formal references from the existing context. As a respectful engagement with the surrounding landscape, the form is positioned as a singular level dwelling on a support structure that runs underneath, allowing for minimal interruption to the terrain. Located in its namesake, inland and to the north-west of Brisbane, generous openings allow for ideal views out towards the valley and hills in the distance. Wrapped in a protective sleeve of metal sheeting, the home is both sheltered and sheltering for its residents. Alexandra Buchanan Architecture draws from the history of the area to propose a fitting addition to the site, continuing a narrative of metal structures in rural contexts.

Drawing on Japanese principles of planning and a connection to the natural, distinct zones were created for living and sleeping to further embed ideas of rest and retreat.

Highvale House opens predominantly to the south, where a wall of glazing allows for uninterrupted views out. The deliberate positioning permits an optimised outlook from each of the internal spaces, creating a sense of being integrated within the natural elements. To the west and north-west, large wall cavities are carved into the overall form and are positioned to regulate the internal temperature of the home through thermal mass and solar capture. As an interplay with light throughout, the inclusion of outdoor decks and openings add to the residence’s cohesive comfort, where operable elements control temperature and concentration of natural light.

Through a curated palette, a rich warmth is brought into the interior of the home, creating a connection to the surrounding nature and eucalyptus trees. Wrapped in cool metal, the internal sleeve of timber offers an element of contrast, texturally diverse and tactile. Drawing on Japanese principles of planning and a connection to the natural, distinct zones were created for living and sleeping to further embed ideas of rest and retreat. A singular corridor runs the length of the home, acting as a spine that connects and binds the various areas.

Through a curated palette, a rich warmth is brought into the interior of the home, creating a connection to the surrounding nature and eucalyptus trees.

As an extension of place, Highvale House engages with the surrounds at every opportunity, bringing reminders of the unique siting into the interior palette. Alexandra Buchanan Architecture creates a restful reprieve from the contemporary urban home that is further accentuated through the enhanced warmth created.