Design Brief

With a relatively open design brief, the fortune of creative freedom was granted to Gerard Smith of Mojo Design to produce a concept plan that addressed the client’s requests.

The brief required a contemporary styled home (not traditional ‘Country Style’) that maximised the views, incorporated open plan living and featured natural materials throughout.

A modest budget of $750,000 required maximum use of the existing structure and careful design and structural detailing.

Design Solution

Gerard Smith of Mojo Design has conceived a home that unfolds from the landscape, making a strong and impressive statement while remaining respectful of its natural surrounds.

Redefining seamless connection with the outdoors and incorporating passive solar design principals throughout the building, the new living spaces were designed to be filled with light and air, projecting outwards on both sides towards the landscape.


To one side, the roof floats over a grand alfresco area with a built in Kitchenette / BBQ and fireplace. To the other side lies a swimming pool.

The existing residence was remodeled into the new bedroom wing.

The owners have named the house ‘Satori’ in reference to the Zen Buddhist term of individual enlightenment.

Material Considerations

Expanses of glazing have been used to enable panoramic views and open connection to the natural surrounds enjoyed by practically every room.

Lourve windows capture the prevailing breezes and ceiling fans have been used throughout the house.

Natural materials such as locally produced custom made bench tops and timber joinery combine to form a meticulously finished interior.

Energy efficient light fittings and appliances have also been incorporated to meet the client’s sustainable living requests.

Photography: Paul Smith Images

 

This article was written with the assistance of Building Designers Australia.