“The project brief centered around covering the open internal space between the wings of an existing building, and making this new area usable as a venue. The existing building had a lot of potential, in the form of location (on a hill with views and indigenous trees), interesting internal spaces (haunched ceilings and skylights), as well as a pleasing dimension for the courtyard, which would lend itself well to becoming a new ‘in between’ space.

The original intention was to clad the roof completely in translucent polycarbonate, in reference to the older greenhouse on the farm – a space much-loved by wedding couples and photographers due to the softly diffused light. Studies showed that while this was technically possible, the likelihood of uncomfortable temperatures limited the usability of the structure during warmer months of the year.

The solution that presented itself was an asymmetric double-pitched roof, where a solid but lightweight northern roof was contrasted with natural light entering from the sharply raked southern roof clad in polycarbonate. Aesthetically, this created contrast and drama between the existing building and the insertion. Digital climate modeling was used to ensure a high interior comfort level.

Crucially, the landscaping surrounding the building was approached as integral to the architecture itself. Framed by large glazed doors on either side, the space can be opened completely on both sides in good weather. This creates long views right through, onto a backdrop of landscape which was carefully designed not only for visual appeal but also as a place to wander through. Inspired by the small but enveloping Japanese ‘promenade gardens’ of the Edo period, indigenous trees, grasses, and still water were used to create an idealised landscape. The ‘miegakure’ or ‘hide and reveal’ technique creates a winding path for strolling that reveals carefully framed views.”