Compact and Light – Nightlight by Fabric Architecture

Nightlight is both a transitional structure and one of supporting amenity that is part of a larger vision to regenerate and enhance the richly abundant landscape. Fabric Architecture adopts a sensitive approach, respecting the rural vernacular in proposing the form.

Nightlight takes influences from traditional Japanese detailing and styles found in nearby Christchurch. The structure is compact and efficient, remaining considerate of the natural revitalisation of the surrounding area. The form is intended to fit within a larger structure eventually and so was designed in a modular capacity. With a shed-type silhouette, Fabric Architecture uses translucent polycarbonate and centralised lighting to illuminate the form – the effect becoming the inspiration for its name.

With a shed-type silhouette, Fabric Architecture uses translucent polycarbonate and centralised lighting to illuminate the form – the effect becoming the inspiration for its name.

As the owners were involved in the design process, the home benefits from a close and intimate level of detailing. With finely tuned elements, the resolve becomes one that responds to the site with respect. The timber construction expresses the structural elements that hold the frame in place – emphasising, rather than concealing, junctions.

The form takes influence from the soft tones of the landscape, reinterpreting them in the home’s design. Following the flow of the treetops and grasses, the roofline aligns as a single pitch. A textural palette features timber as the main material, with touches of green paint referencing the surrounds. The form is both a retreat and launch pad for the coming chapters of the development – setting the tone of sensitive engagement with the site.

The form takes influence from the soft tones of the landscape, reinterpreting them in the home’s design.

A taste of what is to come, Nightlight sits optimistically in place. Through its holistic approach, Fabric Architecture ensures the detailing and crafted rigour of the form is representative of its connection to the surrounding environment.