International
International
Långhus – an Australian summerhouse in the Swedish countryside. After 35 years in Australia, I rediscovered a site close to where I grew up. My connection to this land is strong and continues to evoke a visual and emotional sense of belonging, both to the land and its people. The idea behind the building is continuity with the landscape.
Simple planning controls (area, height, and roof pitch) governs the site. From the western vernacular-like facade, the roof tilts up and down to maximise internal volume. A narrow plan, extensive glazed areas and a neutral palette of colours highlight the connection to surrounding nature. The green carpet creates a medium for vegetation to ‘flow’ through the house. The dark colours of the steel-clad roof and walls, and pine gables recess the house and prevents competition with the colours of nature. Only in snow, does the building stand out.
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.
