Queensberry House was designed to respond to the specific environmental conditions and geology of its unique site. Perched on the slopes of the Pisa Range looking northeast over the Clutha River, the site experiences extreme cold in winter and baking conditions in summer.

The clients spent a number of years visiting the site and observing conditions through various seasons noting wind, temperature, sun and humidity. This experience of the site was hugely influential on the design process as were the remarkable natural rock formations scattered across the site.

The design response was a house which resembles small collection of structures (or collection of rocks), organised around a central, sheltered courtyard. The courtyard, located on the southern side of the house, provided shelter from frequent winds and respite from the summer sun.

Full height glazing on both sides of the living space maintain a visual connection from the courtyard through to the northeastern aspect. Concealed external roller blinds above the north facing windows can be lowered to provide shading when required.

The exterior of the house is clad in robust profiled metal cladding, contrasting with the soft interior tones of birch, spruce and oak.

Targeting Passive House Certification