The colour and tonality of the cliff edges in Anglesea are expressed in the use of an invented brick. The bricks were developed with brickmaker Klynton Krause, a long-time collaborator. The extensive process involved extrusion and hand tearing the brick surface prior to cutting which exposes a raw, rough-hewn texture.

A series of glazing experiments applied to raw clay before single firing are revealed in different sections of the building. Unglazed bricks blend to green and brown glazed bricks which broadly align with the extensive planting of coastal banksias surrounding the property.  A single fall of the roof across the plan ends in a low point where a terracotta clad spout discharges water onto a massive rock.

The terracotta tiles are sourced from Cotto Manetti in Chianti, Italy with whom John has a close relationship. As terracotta conducts temperature well, the walls and the concrete slab are heavily insulated and sealed to ensure minimal temperature variation. The house is 100% electric with a heat exchange water system, hydronic heating and solar panels. It’s also heavily shaded by operable blinds and shutters which modify heat and light into the centre of plan. Spotted gum timber is used carefully in varying formats - recycled (flooring), veneer (joinery) and sparingly as solid (windows and revealed structure in areas).  The robust natural materials of the limited palette are durable and will weather to a natural tonality.

The dwelling works as haven both functionally and aesthetically, providing connection for its inhabitants to the landscape and to each other. The materials imbue the home with a sense of place, the surrounding landscape further embeds the home in its context. Terracotta is the element that binds it together in an adaptable home for entertaining and seclusion in all seasons.