Drift Bay House

Set on a dramatic lakefront site in Drift Bay, this project expands an existing gabled home and barn to accommodate a growing family and their desire for flexible living and guest spaces. The clients, who divide their time between this property and Sydney, sought a retreat that reflected their values—sustainability, simplicity, and a strong connection to the land.

To meet these needs, we introduced a new two-level gabled volume in board-formed concrete to the west of the original buildings. Anchored by a double-height dining space with a glazed roof, the addition links to the existing forms through rock-clad and glazed passageways, framing sheltered courtyards that protect against the harsh southerly winds and foster indoor–outdoor flow.

Materials were chosen for both durability and texture in the exposed alpine environment: timber-shuttered precast concrete, hot-rolled steel cladding, and Glenorchy rock form a robust, low-maintenance palette. Warm timber interiors mirror this natural exterior, continuing the narrative of strength and simplicity throughout.

The project was delivered in close collaboration with the client and Site Landscape Architects, resulting in a seamless extension that honours the original architecture while opening the home to new layers of family life, comfort, and connection to the dramatic landscape.