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The verandas provide a threshold between the internal and external spaces. “They soften the abrupt change and mediate the relationship between inside and out,” says architect Ben Shields.

The home was designed as a retreat for architect Roger Nelson and his wife Jane, a teacher of yoga. “We were very involved in the process, as once the ‘building documentation’ was complete we administered the project,” says Roger. “It’s a space for us to unwind and relax alone or with family and friends.” Ironbark timber was selected for the exterior cladding due to its high BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) rating.

A creative couple combine their talents to give a camper a retro-inspired revamp.

Studio Puisto Architects craft a calming retreat for nature lovers in a secluded Finnish forest.

The house is currently being used for gatherings and corporate retreats for companies that embrace a philosophy of planetary wellness.

In British Columbia’s Soo Valley, only some 20 minutes from Whistler skiing, this off-grid residence designed by Perkins & Will is a pilot for Delta Land Development’s future alpine settlement. Principally powered by the sun, it’s built to Passive House standards, collecting its own water and treating its own waste. Heated by a GeoExchange geothermal pump, it also embraces natural ventilation with cleverly placed windows.

Hickory flooring stretches throughout the house.

The neighboring building houses a storage room and a wood-burning sauna.

Perkins & Will designs a mountaintop Passive House that takes energy efficiency to the next level.

Large gum trees offer a natural barrier for the house. Harkness designed the house's footprint in order to minimize the effect on tree roots. “The retained trees offer a sense of layering and age that new vegetation won’t be able to for a long time,” Harkness says.

Courtyard

New rear addition