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On the north side, you’ll find the lap pool which runs 10 feet deep to accommodate one of the homeowners, who insists on entering the pool with a dive every time.

“I designed the pool as a form related to the house, but almost stepping down in scale,” says architect Kirsten Johnstone. “Australia’s strict regulations around pools create challenges to achieve compliance. Here, we have used some timber battens and continuous bluestone paving to connect the pool to the entertaining area.” The garden is planted with drought-tolerant indigenous plants to support local wildlife.

Clear Oaks Residence is nearly hidden by the landscape, which makes this home a true retreat from the hubbub of the city. A Genesis GV80 sits surrounded by lush landscaping. Preproduction model with optional features shown.

The angled steel staircase has perforated steel mesh side panels.

Hay outdoor furniture sits underneath the steel pergola.

One of the highlights of the Mariposa House’s renovation is a new trellis complemented by heaps of lush vegetation.

Embodied energy, gray water, black water, carbon footprint—the list of sustainable design terms goes on and on, and we're here to help you make sense of them.

The open-plan lower level flows into a covered patio through bifold doors by Loewen. The shingles, made of Alaskan yellow cedar, were pre-stained off-site in seven earthy hues. For maintenance, they will require a new UV topcoat every two-to-three years. The Condesa chairs are by Innit Designs.

Extension & Courtyard Facing Study

It was important for MAPA to highlight the original vernacular of the ranch residence, so the design firm embraced the large covered porch.

The house's short, east-facing walls extend out to the terrace, blurring indoor and outdoor spaces.

JJ Joubert