Cataract Gorge House

The steep land informs the 2 narrow pavilion plans, with a staircase that climbs the hill and connects the two wings. The large concrete walls to the south hold back the hill and allow for a release on the flat north facing patios. The other walls are lightweight and clad in spotted gum which blends into the surrounding bushland.

The house relies on passive cooling through its deep eaves and natural ventilation. Operable windows and doors are strategically positioned in relation to prevailing winds to maximise cross-ventilation.

Every habitable room has a connection to the outside and large rock boulders form walls and level changes to create separation between these outdoor spaces.

'The house is mostly heated passively by the sun. In winter, the north and east facing windows capture the sun, and this is stored in the thermal mass of the concrete walls and floor. In the depths of winter, on an overcast day, we use our fireplace to warm the entire house.' - Owner

Site Details

Location: Launceston, Tasmania

Context: Suburban

BAL Rating: 29

Project Details

Completion Date: 2015
Floor Area: 198m2

Materials: In-situ poured concrete walls, Spotted Gum cladding externally, finished with Lanotec oil, Blackbutt window frames, Tas Oak timber flooring with Whittle Wax finish and honed concrete slab in sunken lounge and bedrooms.

Joinery: Form ply and Blackbutt.

Consultants and Contractors

Builder: Owner Builder

Joiner: Andrew Otto Woodworks

Engineer: JMG Engineers

Energy Assessor: Wayne Gorman

Photographer: Anjie Blair

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