The house was designed for an active couple who loved being in the outdoors. The brief was to create a small house that worked well during inclement weather when outdoor pursuits were cancelled. The couple wanted a choice of living courtyards that provided sheltered options from the wind. The design also took advantage of the stunning views of the Western Mountains. The clients wanted to use sustainable materials and passive solar heating to minimise their environmental footprint. The house is constructed of cement stabilized adobe block with hand crafted timber detailing. A new owner commissioned us to design a sympathetic extension to the house.