An enormous oak tree shapes the design of the Secret Garden House. While screened from the street, the design subtly reveals sequential views of the grand old tree. Working carefully within the sensitive canopy, the plan stretches east to west to prioritise northern sunlight to the main living areas.

Three pavilions are linked via garden courtyards, revealing secret garden rooms. The central living pavilion creates a spacious open-plan living area with access to sun-drenched and shaded garden spaces.

The brief called for intergenerational living, visitor accommodation and aging-in-place. In response, the design prioritises accessibility to Gold and Platinum Livability Standards. Particular attention has been given to circulation spaces, flush thresholds, assistance rails and bathroom design to ensure easy living.

Energy efficiency has also been deeply considered. A solar PV array achieves net-zero energy use, working with insulation, mechanical heat exchange, double glazing, and a well-sealed building to create a comfortable home throughout Canberra’s distinct seasons.

The interiors are inspired by a deep love of colour and reference the homeowner’s passion for quilt making. Every room is a different colour, and there is almost no white to be found throughout the dwelling.

The exterior palette is made from recycled Canberra red bricks salvaged from the old house and reused in the new. This is softened with hardwood vertical cladding and zincalume roof cladding (as a nod to the Australian vernacular). This dwelling is an exemplar of bespoke, personalised design work that will enrich the lives of the residents for a long time into the future.

Lightbulb Studio

• Pichelmann Custom Building (Construction)

• MELD Landscape Design Studio (Landscapes)

• Sellick Consultants (Structural engineering)

• Powerhaus Engineering (Energy engineering)

• Acme Scheffer (Screen design)

• Gold Leaf Tree Services (Arborist services)