Owl House

The premise of this project was to create an off-grid living response to the global pandemic. Stemming from the loose brief of a biomimicry architecture competition, we were able to invent a character to guide our design thinking. Building the design around a client who is quiet, assertive and observant of their surroundings, we wanted to develop a space that would support their character and line of work. The client is a writer, so this off-grid living home becomes a space of reflection and tranquillity.

To achieve the desired aims, we opted for a contemporary and rustic interior, utilising earthy tones to help keep the client grounded within their home. The name, ‘OWL House’, is derived from the strong personality and profession of the invented client, who possesses similar qualities to those of an owl. This off-grid house acts as a live-work space that will support and care for the client, using sustainable solutions to retain its longevity.

The house utilises small spaces effectively, with storage units that have carefully considered the joinery to allow it to be compact where necessary. Each of the designs made in this home is bespoke as it lends itself to biophilic answers to design problems. By using sustainable materials and renewable ways of generating electricity, this project considers how biomimicry can invite a new concept of social and restorative living in the modern world.