Fingal Oasis Project Book

This project strives to reflect the contexts of the
Fingal Headlands by taking cues from natural
landscapes, cascading tidal rock pools, rainforest,
and basalt rock formations. Natural materials
embrace their elemental changes and mix with
lush subtropical landscaping to create a green
connection between the street, the house and the
rainforest. The location of the oasis at the front of
the block serves to break up the typical suburban
development typology, which locates the building
at the front of the block with the yard out backresulting
in the creation of a walled streetscape.
This project flips that notion and introduces
landscape and active family life back to the street.
The project consists of a series of terraces,
decks and gardens layered within a series of
twisting landscapes and building elements
arranged around an organically shaped
pool. Organic shapes along with dissolving
details, natural elements, and materials were
designed and selected to complement and
enhance the natural surroundings of the
site. Every design idea was tested against the
question; “how can we make this dissolve?”
Our clients relocated from the city in a quest to
provide a happy and healthy lifestyle for their
young family. They came to us with a desire to
enhance the connection between their family
and their natural location, bringing family life
outside and to provide a connected home
studio (in lieu of an existing garage) where work
takes place as part of the greater landscape and
family activity. Our challenge presented itself
in the differing levels and orientations of the
existing yard, house and garage. We introduced
organic forms through landscape elements,
where pools and ponds created a series of
layers and zones. These layers dissolve and
dance with each other, creating sensory spaces
of exploration and play alongside the tranquil.
Plants and building materials were chosen
with clients, landscapers and suppliers with
detailed and extensive knowledge of the
local area. Detailing evolved on site through
constant conversation and dialogue. Plants were
tested, moved, rejuvenated, and in some cases
transplanted from neighbouring properties to
ensure a distinctly local flavour. New details and
selections were conceived on site as site conditions
evolved through close consultation with all
trades and availability of local products and skills.
This development creates an oasis for our clients
growing family and many visitors in Fingal Heads.
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