Gundungurra Country
New South Wales
Megalong Valley is characterised by immense escarpments, sandstone bluffs and uninterrupted views of the Blue Mountains bushland. The journey to site is always memorable – the continually shifting light, dancing on the rocks, creates a unique experience each time you visit.
Inspired by the very site it sits on, the built form holds an exceptional duality – it is bold in architectural expression, yet grounded to the site by its materiality. Primarily consisting of rammed earth, concrete, charred timber and glass; the darker toned materials allow the house to recede into the landscape, while the large glass openings are able to filter the golden light into internal spaces.
Golden Vale is an inspiring piece of architecture that has a lasting impact on all. The site, the people and the local community have been transformed by this project, becoming a memorable point of reference in Megalong Valley.
We love how the design is well thought through and nuanced to the site.
The sun tracks across the day into different rooms. It’s cool inside during summer and warm even on cold frosty days.
The materials blend into the environment and are sustainable in a harsh weather environment.
The large sliding doors means indoor to outdoor living blends, and we feel like we are glamping.
People ask us how the house is to live in, our answer is “it’s just really fun”.
It is our little slice of heaven away from our city lives.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
