‘The question of how to respond to an open, empty landscape is always challenging,’ says director of Tanner Architects, Stuart Tanner. And yet, in the case of his Mays Point project, he has answered it perfectly. 

‘The empty rolling paddocks shift and change with the sharp Tasmanian light and the atmospheric sea below are a stirring landscape backdrop,’ says Stuart. ‘The open, visible, rural location was fundamental to the way the building was subtly integrated into the site contour.’

Stuart’s architectural intention was to deliver to a building with a low profile, something uncomplicated and unobtrusive that sank into the landscape well. Crucial to this goal was a durable yet refined material palette consisting largely of concrete, glass and galvanised steel. 

Internally, the clients wished for subdued interior finishes, to again allow for maximum focus on the natural surrounds. 

Comprising a single rectangular block, the layout is simple and functional. The main bedroom suite lies at the southwestern tip of the footprint, while two more bedrooms sit secreted along the hallway. This passage culminates in the main living space, which is flanked by ceiling high windows on both sides. A lounge, dining room, kitchen and sitting space all sit neatly in this hub, taking full advantage of the view.

‘The architecture recedes to enable one to experience place. The tactility of the materials allows an experience at a micro level, while the scale and durability of the building give a sense of security, comfort and shelter,’ explains Stuart.

A precise take on a poetic structural response. 

See more projects from Tanner Architects here.