Woolamai House

by Kerstin Thompson Architects

From The Architect

Taking its cues from agricultural buildings in the surrounding farmland, this home presents as a prosaic hayshed from afar. Within this simple skillion form is housed a calm rural retreat.

The interior is organised by the placement of two plywood sleeping pods under a unifying roof. The first of these is the main bedroom suite which is stepped in plan in response to the topography. The second – which is double storey – accommodates guests and children. The remaining space below the roof is the living area. Sited to enjoy dramatic views to the north and west the change in ceiling height shifts the feel of this space from domestic and intimate to agrarian and expansive.

The skin of the building is corrugated sheet. A substantial portion of this is perforated to provide sun shade and the opportunity for cross flow ventilation while keeping out the flies common to this cattle-filled landscape. A breezeway verandah on the northern side can be used to supplement the living areas and doubles as a sleep-out for hot Australian nights. The house is able to be adjusted according to the seasons – effectively a glasshouse in winter and a breezeway in summer.

The house in combination with the garage/workshop and above ground pool work as an ensemble to define a domestic landscape; together they mediate the elements and exposure of this Woolamai hilltop.