New House Over $3M (East Coast): Stephen Rachcoff Rachcoff Vella Architecture, Atlas Retreat

WINNER – VIC

New House Over $3M (East Coast)

Designer: Stephen Rachcoff, Rachcoff Vella Architecture Location: Shoreham Web: rachcoffvella.com.au Builder: Layton Builders Energy Assessor: Energy & Sustainability Consulting Photographer: Tatjana Plitt

The Judges said

This design loses itself in the treetops and seems to be at one with nature. It ticks the box for promoting calm and wellbeing. The well-defined roof line of the upper floor gives a distinctive silhouette against the sky and trees, whilst the lower level is grounding with its rammed earth walls and large walls of glass drawing out to a magnificent bush setting. Maintaining restraint whilst pushing every element using well considered interfaces on a large canvas is not easy, but wow, has it worked here!

Project Brief

The project evolved from securing a vacant parcel of land that was within close vicinity of the client’s favorite surf break. Atlas Retreat is a tranquil property in a small local community where the bush meets the sea in a unique haven. The idea behind the design was to accommodate multiple user groups in larger ‘lodge’ style accommodation, whether it be a group of friends or a couple of families. Whilst ensuring larger areas were formed, many secluded and quiet nooks were also included for those seeking privacy and solitude. Separate living and break-out spaces, each with their own identity all worked together as a collective, creating balance, harmony and flow throughout the space. Floor to ceiling glass windows that line both the east and west walls flood the home with fresh air, and offer an uninterrupted view amongst the treetops of Western Port Bay in the distance connecting the external elements and bringing in abundant natural light.

Sustainability Considerations

Renewable energy and solar hot water, thermally improved window and door systems and high-performance double-glazed windows were installed. Operable windows were installed on key alignments to maximise cross ventilation and natural products and finishes were used. Removal of existing vegetation was kept to a minimum and there was no removal of native Australian plants. Introduction of native flora and fauna to the landscaping is enhanced by onsite water retention for re-use. Heavily insulated walls, floor, ceiling and roof layers added to the home’s energy performance including a solar heated swimming pool topped up by recycled water.

Rammed earth walls and large walls of glass draw out to a magnificent bush setting.