Located on Bundjalung Country within the hinterland of Byron Bay, NSW, Hinterland House was designed for a private client on a site with commanding views of the surrounding landscape.

The house explores the ideas of prospect and refuge. The building is nestled into the hill, creating outdoor spaces that are protected from the winds over the hills and merging the built form with the landscape. A long pavilion-like main structure that houses most of the daily activities encloses a large central courtyard against the side of the escarpment with two wings holding more private uses. The wings reach into the hill with vertical light wells with the ends drawing in light and air for contemplative private rooms.

A singular roof form provides a vernacular building form and bows down sympathetically with the slope of the hill whilst directing views out towards the landscape. The roof allows Northern light into the house from the rear whilst protecting it from the cool Southerly winds. The landscape around the house keeps the existing, predominant native grasses, maintaining the site’s overall connection to the greater context and drawing the Hills right to the building and pool edge.

Alongside the guest house, a series of architecturally unique cabins were developed. Touching the ground lightly, an elevated floor plate allows for expansive panoramic views. The cabin design adheres to the common theme of prospect and refuge.