Rural aesthetics reimagined
Conceived to echo the forms of traditional rural sheds, the structure stretches long
and low across a ridge, creating a seamless connection with the landscape while appearing to float above the natural terrain. Its palette of materials—rustic steel cladding, timber, and glass—evokes a rugged yet refined sensibility, anchoring the building to its surroundings.
The architectural form ingeniously reinvents the classic shed by inverting the roof, a design choice that invites the afternoon sunlight deep into the interior through windows beneath the extended eaves. The timber-framed roof, lined with plywood, seemingly hovers above the sturdy Corten steel back wall, imbuing the structure with a sense of lightness and elevation.
A busy roadway flanks the western edge of the property, and the house responds with a solid, unyielding facade. This back wall, clad in the weathered tones of Corten steel, not only provides privacy and noise insulation but also grounds the building in its site. The inclusion of a Corten steel fireplace in the living area further reinforces this sense of permanence and cohesion.
Entry to the house is at the lower level, where visitors are greeted by a foyer featuring a polished concrete floor that gently rises, transforming into a timber staircase. This staircase, flanked by a screen of timber battens, leads to the first- floor landing, offering an initial glimpse of the breathtaking views beyond.
Ascending from the landing, the open-plan living area unfolds to the north and west, extending out onto expansive decks on either side. Here, the plywood ceiling appears to float, enhancing the sense of openness, while the timber decks reach outward, blurring the boundary between indoors and outdoors. Black joinery frames the views, mirroring the shadows cast by the surrounding bush and visually anchoring the house within its environment.
The plywood kitchen, which features a sleek stainless steel benchtop, perfectly complements the home's overall aesthetic. While enhancing the kitchen's functionality and durability, the minimalist design and blend of materials also ensures that the kitchen integrates seamlessly with the open-plan living as it merges effortlessly with its surroundings.
The main bedroom extends forward from the landing, projecting into the bush and seemingly hovering above the site. Both the bedroom and its adjoining ensuite command stunning views and are bathed in morning sunlight. Featuring a luxurious freestanding bath and a shower with one wall entirely made of glass, the ensuite makes the most of the captivating outlook, while timber wet-room flooring and plywood cabinetry furthercomplement the aesthetic synergy. Steel mesh screens modulate the vistas, adding a subtle reference to the rural character of the area.
More than a dwelling, this house is a thoughtful integration of design and nature, where each element works together to create a serene and sustainable retreat while also honouring the balance of form versus function.
www.Crosson.co.nz | studio@Crosson.co.nz
