The compact studio fits in a living space, bathroom with laundry, kitchen, sleeping and reading spaces on a modest floor plan of 44 square metres. Featuring timber spotted gum cladding – a low embodied energy, carbon-storing option – this small building has an equally small footprint that highlights the value of reducing resources and the impact of buildings on our planet.

‘The Coal Valley Studio is compact, refined and nurturing. It was designed to be a calm and warm space that had just enough to meet the needs of the users, whether they be a person working from home, a short stay guest or someone enjoying their long-term home. The studio includes a living space, small kitchen, bathroom/ laundry and space for 2 beds in the loft.

A refined and natural material palette of spotted gum externally, concrete, ply and Tas Oak internally, connect the building with the surrounding bush whilst not attempting to compete. We employed passive solar design principles to keep the building warm or cool when needed and windows were rationalised to make the most of light, solar gain and views. By removing the obvious, we made way for the meaningful.’

In conjunction with Richmond 200, Open House Hobart is super excited to announce Open House Richmond. This special one-off event will be held on Saturday 24 + Sunday 25 February 2024, and will form part of an extensive program that celebrates Richmond’s bicentenary. Open House Hobart is an annual architecture program that opens some of Tasmania’s most unique buildings to the public, including private homes and historic buildings across lutruwita Tasmania. We acknowledge that Open House takes place on the land of the traditional owners of lutruwita (Tasmania) and pay respects to the palawa people, Tasmanian Aboriginal Community and to Elders - past, present and emerging.

For detail of the full Open House Richmond 2024 program, head to openhousehobart.org/richmond

Ticket Conditions

Bookings open TBC.  Tickets are free but are also limited and in high demand – if you are unable to attend please cancel your ticket via booking link or contact the Open House Hobart team: tas@architecture.com.au