ESSENTIAL ELEMENT
The relationship between architecture and the environment is crucial to the success of any project
How a house will relate to its surroundings plays an important role not only in its eventual design, but also in how the occupants will interact with both. A harmonious relationship between the built and natural environments will permeate all levels.
But achieving a harmonious relationship isn't reliant upon conforming one environment to the other. Quite disparate elements can be brought together to create a unified whole much like this house, designed by architect Noel Lane.
"Disparity does not necessarily lead to conflict. The lineal nature of this house serves to make you even more aware of its free-flowing surroundings, and vice versa," says Lane.
"The formal relationship between the house and its location is heightened by the fact that architecture is as much about straight lines as it is about the wider context of setting and spatiality."
The setting, however, cannot be ignored, and has a more intrinsic role than just that of providing a nice view.
It is also a linking element contributing to the relationship on a subtle level. In this instance, it is the incorporation of water into the built environment that sustains the harmony.
Another relationship was formed from the property needing to fulfil the requirements of both a family home and boutique lodge accommodation.
"The desire to give the house a more intimate relationship with its surroundings raised point-of-arrival issues for its role as a lodge, and the need for privacy," says Lane. "Unlike the more typical open-plan arrival points of visitor accommodation, the public areas of this guest building are sheltered and enclosed. On the other hand, the private areas the suites themselves have been opened up to interact with the natural environment."
This means the full extent of the relationship between the house and its setting is unveiled only once guests enter their room.
The idea of constantly being on the edge of nature strengthens the harmonious relationship that has already been visually established, says Lane.
Story by: Trendsideas
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