How connected is your home to its setting? This house celebrates an evocative sense of place

Designed by Jim Westover, William Duff Architects,

From the architects:

William Duff Architects (WDA) has a well-honed design philosophy of creating a unique sense of place. 

Childhood memories of traditional houses in India and the vernacular architecture of Ireland inspired the look for this suburban residence.

"Our architectural and design response is always in harmony with the land and reinforces the connection between people and nature – and such was the case for this home," says Westover.

Childhood memories of courtyard houses in India and the vernacular architecture of Ireland inspired a mixed-heritage couple's creative wish-list for this suburban residence.

Elaborating on the design concept, WDA founder William Duff says, “The big gesture is the courtyard, which fosters a sense of community, and we maximised the relationship to the land through landscaping to create a feeling of expansiveness.”

The butterfly roof and its asymmetrical wing span give the three-level house distinction, expression and energy. The roof also creates soaring spaces on the upper level.

Organized around a courtyard, this light-filled home provides a modern, yet comfortable, place for gatherings.

The generously-sized family room features accordion glass walls that fully open to the expansive back yard.

In addition, the white oak planks of the interior floors and Ipe wood courtyard decking are designed to be flush, further optimising an easy flow between interior and exterior spaces.

Glass-encased on two sides, the central steel and wood stair makes traveling between the house's three levels – from the basement level, through the main and upper levels of the house – a dynamic experience.

Outdoor rooms, including a seating area surrounding the fire pit, and a gazebo, provide abundant opportunities for communing with nature.

The open floor plan provides access to the central courtyard from all the public spaces of the house.

Story by: Trendsideas

Photography by: Matthew Millman