Perched on the precipice of the Byron Bay hinterland, Federal House by Edition Office stands as a contemplative sentinel, harmoniously engaging with its verdant surroundings.
This Melbourne-based architecture studio has crafted a residence that not only offers panoramic vistas but also delves into the profound interplay between structure and landscape.
From a distance, Federal House presents a subdued silhouette, its form receding into the expansive terrain. Clad in a textured skin of timber battens, the exterior exudes a tactile warmth, inviting closer inspection. This material choice fosters a dialogue between the built environment and the organic textures of the hinterland, blurring the boundaries between nature and habitation.
Upon approach, the design reveals its homage to the archetypal Australian verandah—a space that mediates between interior and exterior realms. This deep, shaded verandah encircles the living areas, creating a gradient of shadow that enhances the sense of refuge. It allows inhabitants to immerse themselves in the landscape's dynamism while providing shelter from the region's capricious weather.
At the heart of the home lies a central fern garden, an oasis of tranquility that anchors the living spaces. This verdant core not only serves as a visual focal point but also facilitates natural ventilation and light, fostering a microclimate within. Descending from this garden, one discovers a subterranean pool—a concealed sanctuary reminiscent of a natural swimming hole. This descent into the earth contrasts with the elevated living areas, offering a sensory journey that engages both sight and touch.
Edition Office's design philosophy is evident in Federal House's deliberate materiality and spatial narratives. The practice is renowned for its exploration of material expression and form, creating structures that resonate with their cultural and environmental contexts. In Federal House, this manifests as a conscious acknowledgment of the site's indigenous heritage and the temporal nature of human intervention within such enduring landscapes.
