Wategos is defined as much by its subtropical landscape as its proximity to the ocean. Dense vegetation, steep topography, heat, rain and filtered light create a particular way of inhabiting the hillside.

The architecture begins with these conditions. Rather than composing the houses as singular objects, the building mass is separated into horizontal volumes that move with the contours of the land. The spaces between them become part of the architecture itself: shaded terraces, garden thresholds and open-air rooms that allow light and air to move through the buildings.

Subtropical living relies on this porosity. Deep overhangs temper the sun, recessed gardens draw vegetation into the architecture, and openings are positioned to encourage natural ventilation and maintain a constant relationship with the landscape. The Garden House takes this idea further, settling into the gully so that its principal living spaces open directly onto the garden rather than rising above it for the view.

Limestone, natural render, timber and planted terraces give the architecture a material weight against the lushness around it. Over time, vegetation will continue to occupy the edges of the buildings, allowing architecture and garden to become increasingly inseparable.

Wategos Estate — Byron Bay, Australia — Coming soon

Living within the canopy.

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