Congo, 2023 | Yuin Country
Takt basecamp at Congo, South Coast New South Wales, Australia.
In the lee of the headland, a gently north sloping site at the lowest point in the landscape. Forest red gums (Eucalyptus tereticornis) defining the edges of the former creek which runs to Congo Creek.
Originally occupied as a summer retreat, a minimal tarpaulin kitchen and dining deck was established, and which in turn led to a desire to build as simple as possible of a house. Camping was comfortable during summer, and in winter the need for sunny protected space was key.
After Black Summer bushfires, the role of this place expanded and the encampment grew into a south coast studio for the practice, as they became involved in community disaster rebuilding projects in the region.
This work led to a permanent relocation of its main studio and the design of a studio / house. Multiple futures for the site were imagined, but all returned to an open, covered central room, bridging the watercourse. Echoing the pattern of the former camp.
Singular, and yet connected to surrounding bushscape by sliding walls and clerestory walls of sky, this space imagined enlivened by family, friends, conversation, music and everchanging light.
To reduce the ecological footprint and address the challenge of remote site construction, a Cross Laminated Timber construction method was chosen, enabling a compressed build timeline to lockup and dry.
Built by Takt with Dean Dawson, with invaluable assistance and advice from Mark Loader and team, and with amazing family and friends. CLT by KLH.
Project team
Brent Dunn, Katharina Hendel, Daniel Rivers, Emma Gaal, Ben Beattie
Engineering _ Geoffrey Pryke Design
Windows & Doors _ AHJ Architectural Hardwood Joinery
Photography _ Shantanu Starick & Takt