Nestled among tea trees on a rural site on Phillip Island, this four-bedroom family home is the result of a close collaboration between the architect and builder, united by a shared passion for carpentry and structural design. Inspired by nearby rural farm buildings, the single-story home embraces a refined shed-like aesthetic that celebrates simple, honest materials. The meticulously crafted exposed timber structure highlights the harmony between wood and workmanship, drawing attention to joinery, connection details, and the innovative use of timber throughout the construction.
This approach takes cues from Japanese architectural traditions, where the natural character of timber is not only embraced but celebrated. In these traditions, the grain and imperfections of wood are viewed not as flaws but as expressions of nature’s unique beauty. This philosophy aligns with the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfection and the transience of life. By emphasizing these qualities, the design honours craftsmanship and embodies the subtle elegance of simplicity.
The home consists of two separate wings, connected by a timber bridge, with living and sleeping areas sheltered beneath skillion-roofed structures that gently slope upwards toward the surrounding tree canopy. The views into the canopy offer tranquil moments of reflection and a deeper connection to the natural environment. The two roofs converge at a central swale, or rain garden, which unites the pavilions, collecting rainwater and channelling it into a nearby dry creek bed, where native reeds and grasses thrive. Inside, the exposed timber frame enhances the sense of connection to nature, fostering a positive atmosphere for its occupants. One wing features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area with a central fireplace and north-facing windows, framed by a strong structural rhythm.
The second wing houses four bedrooms, each benefiting from the cooler southern orientation and views of the tea tree edge. Modest in both amenities and scale, the property also includes a carport, swimming pool, and vegetable garden. Natural, informal native landscaping links the house to the pool, seamlessly blending the built environment with the surrounding landscape
The meticulously crafted exposed timber structure highlights the harmony between wood and workmanship, drawing attention to joinery, connection details, and the innovative use of timber throughout the construction.
Pleysier Perkins
Ross Berger
Mark Watson
Josie Somerville
Rose Steel
Zac Goldberg
Builder
Landscape Design
Timber Manufacturer
Structural Engineer