Adam describes the architectural design as “Modernist with an industrial feel,” thanks to its linear design and the use of ‘engineering’ materials such as steel, bricks and concrete. “As the elements were exposed rather than concealed, we kept a sense of truth to the materials chosen,” he contends. The interior of the lower level is comprehensively linked to the outdoors. The living area is flanked by a Japanese garden to the west and an eastfacing garden terrace, both accessed by folding doors. An internal courtyard leads to the pool, while the back lawn and deck are directly accessed from the dining and rumpus rooms respectively. The insulated cavity brickwork further enhances the thermal massing. The open design also allows excellent crossflow ventilation, an often overlooked component of passive design.

The rear of the house faces north, allowing the low winter sun to penetrate over the pool and through the internal courtyard into the living space. Hard
flooring throughout the lower level substantially enhances thermal absorption into the slab.