The Bickley - Living among the trees

A contemporary response to climate, privacy, and light — designed through a solar passive lens.

Nestled into the natural slope of a bushland site, the Bickley Residence is a home designed in dialogue with its landscape—lightly touching the earth while opening itself fully to the surrounding treetops and distant views.e of calm, protected living within an urban context. The architecture balances openness with privacy, using layered elements that filter light and frame the experience of the home.

The design responds directly to the terrain, lifting the primary living spaces above ground level to minimise site impact while creating a sense of elevation and immersion within nature.

At the heart of the home, a central fireplace anchors the open-plan living, dining, and kitchen spaces—both spatially and experientially. This vertical element defines zones without enclosing them, creating a subtle rhythm between gathering, retreat, and connection. Double-height glazing draws natural light deep into the interior, while carefully positioned openings frame curated views of the surrounding bush.

A continuous wraparound terrace extends the living spaces outward, dissolving the boundary between inside and out. Deep overhangs provide passive solar shading, allowing winter sun to warm the interiors while protecting from summer heat—supporting a comfortable, energy-efficient living environment throughout the year.

Materiality is intentionally restrained and grounded: warm timber linings, natural stone, and a muted external palette allow the home to sit quietly within its context. Internally, soft textures and natural finishes create a calm, sensory environment that enhances wellbeing and daily rituals.

Private spaces are positioned to maximise outlook and privacy, with bedrooms opening to elevated views and filtered light. Each room maintains a strong connection to nature, reinforcing the home’s overarching intention—to create a sanctuary that feels both protective and expansive.

The Bickley Residence is an exploration of balance—between architecture and landscape, openness and shelter, form and feeling—resulting in a home that is deeply connected, quietly expressive, and designed to be experienced over time.