Hennings Lane

Location / Austinmer, Dharawal Nation

Built / 2022

Designer / Dane Taylor

Doors & Windows / AHJ

Photography / Daniel Mulheran

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2023 Houses Awards | Shortlist | New House under 200m2

Finalist | Residential | Australian Timber Design Awards 2023

Butterfly House sits snug on a narrow block in Austinmer. The structure turning away from its southern laneway frontage embraces its connection with the Illawarra Gumtree escarpment to the north and west. The feeling of the home is about refuge and retreat, with a warm hand-crafted material palette of Australian Blackbutt, recycled hardwoods and locally sourced rammed earth. Inspiration for the home was drawn from the client’s connection with Japan by using timber screening and Shou Sugi Ban (a traditional Japanese technique of charring timber cladding). Essential sustainability inclusions of a 5kw solar system, rainwater harvesting, natural ventilation, recycled materials, and thermal mass were all carefully integrated.

Words by Dane Taylor

“Working with Greensmith & Co was an impressive experience. Building a Japanese inspired house on the south coast of NSW was a dream come true.

I wanted to be involved as much as possible in both the design and construction of the building.

From the outset good lines of communication were established.Together with the designer, Campbell and Duncan took the initiative. When challenges arose they were dealt with in a timely and professional way. My house has been featured on the internet and in magazines which only adds to the success of Greensmith & Co. I wholeheartedly recommend Greensmith builders, especially if you are interesting in undertaking a unique and challenging building project.”

- Helen Meekosha / Hennings Lane