Residential Architecture: Courtyard House Somers by Opat Architects: “..the house is designed to operate independently of public water, gas, sewerage and electricity. The design incorporates a range of outdoor spaces as an extension of the living spaces. Spaces are orientated due north and the shape of the house is designed to allow the sun to heat spaces during winter and to naturally ventilate during summer..A sustainability consultant guided the selection of all materials. External walls and roof are insulated lightweight structure and finish. The fireplace and concrete floors provide the thermal mass. Ecoply is used for the courtyard surface and radially sawn Silver Top Ash for external board and batten cladding.” Interior courtyard, environmental sensibility..
image: Opat Architects; article: King , Victoria . “Courtyard House Somers / Opat Architects” 05 Mar 2012. ArchDaily. <http://www.archdaily.com/213263>

