HOUSE AT OTAGO BAY
By Topology Studio
Located on a lazy bend of the Derwent River in Hobart, this house accentuates the drama of living on the water’s edge. Connections with the landscape oscillate between enclosure and embrace. A courtyard, a colonnade, ledges and terraces soften the distinction between house and landscape with a series of steps and paths.
The entry is deliberately solid, drawing you into the centre of the house where a long, curved wall follows the contours of the site. In the main living space, the roof sweeps up to reveal views of Mount Wellington to the west and Mount Direction to the east. Looking out over the water, the owners can make their morning coffee while they decide if it’s a good day to take the boat out.
The lower floor is embedded in the steeply sloping ground, providing the bedroom with framed, sheltered views of the water. Window sills are wide enough to sit on and a small external terrace is an ideal spot for the dogs to doze in the afternoon sun.
Inside, refined details and carefully selected materials produce a home that is textured and warm. Locally sourced masonry has been custom-manufactured to complement the tones of the setting, while limed-oak ceilings, warm timber joinery and polished concrete floors soften the light, creating a calm atmosphere from which to appreciate the natural landscape.
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HOUSE AT OTAGO BAY
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HOUSE AT OTAGO BAY
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About the
Professional
Topology Studio was founded by directors Amy Hallett and Darren Kaye in 2012. Together, Amy and Darren bring to their practice a combined 40 years of experience in delivering projects with inherently complex and unique briefs, and a passion for exacting design standards.
Topology Studio’s designs are informed by the unique attributes of each site, in particular, the physical landscape and the climatic conditions, to create bold, rich and meaningful places. Their work combines a design-intensive, creative approach with robust, process-driven architecture.
Having spent a decade as Associate Director at one of Australia’s most respected architecture practices, Darren has extensive experience leading residential, commercial and hospitality projects across all scales. His innovative approach to design is driven by an interest in the way sustainability principles can enhance the inhabitant’s experience of architecture, as well as the broader environment.
Amy’s experience working for leading design architects has developed her passion for detail and conceptual legibility. She has worked on numerous public, residential and educational projects in Australia and overseas, notably The British Library Centre for Conservation and The Jewish Museum in London. Having a young family has provided new insight into designing for children and families in both the residential and public spheres.