Green Island Point Pavilion
Nestled at the core of Green Island Point, the pavilion stands as a testament to community resilience and a symbol of gathering. Embraced by the robust embrace of rough-sawn Tasmanian oak, the cladding envelops the shelter, shielding it from the westerly winds emanating from the Scamander River
The choice of dark charcoal for the pavilion's structure creates a striking contrast against the gentle, natural hues of Tasmanian Oak. This visual dialogue mirrors the stark narrative of the region's history, particularly the unforgiving bushfires that swept through the community in 2006.
The pavilion, with its architectural duality, becomes not only a physical sanctuary but also a poignant reminder of the community's endurance. As the resilient Tasmanian Oak intertwines with the charcoal structure, it symbolizes the community's ability to weather storms, both natural and historical, emerging stronger and more united than ever at the heart of Green Island Point.
Read more on Green Island Point Below
Nestled in the embrace of Mother Nature's protective beauty, Scamander emerges as an exquisite haven, steeped in ancient stories and unique wilderness – a quintessential Tasmanian gem. Here, the design of this sanctuary pays homage to the landscape, the spirit of the place, and the ever-changing climate, reflecting Green Island Point's authentic vision for prestigious living seamlessly intertwined with nature.
This waterfront oasis extends an invitation to indulge in exclusive amenities, creating a social hub for residents to connect and celebrate milestones. From tennis courts to a community center and a BBQ pavilion, the enclave fosters a sense of community where shared experiences thrive – a true testament to the Tasmanian ethos.
Adding to the allure of Scamander is the presence of pro surfer Dion 'Baby' Agius, whose daring surfing style and influential status have catapulted this exclusive Tasmanian locale onto the global stage. The waves beckon, the forest trails await exploration, and Tasmania's world-class beaches offer an oceanic haven for those seeking the extraordinary – a paradise within the Top 10 Tasmania destinations.
Dive into the rich tapestry of Scamander living – ride the waves, trek through lush forests, relish the freshest seafood, or simply bask in the glory of the ocean's embrace. Whatever your vision for a fulfilling life entails, you'll uncover it within the prestigious enclave of Scamander, ranking high among the Top 10 Tasmania experiences.
Amidst this scenic haven, one can find solace and vibrant energy at Swims East Coast Coffee on 1 Steel St, Scamander. More than just a coffee stop, this café, housed in a stylized shipping container overlooking the beach, offers a cool ambiance and has earned its place among Tasmania's best – a must-visit in the Top 10 Tasmania coffee spots. Adding to its charm, it's a pet-friendly spot, allowing you to enjoy your brew in the company of your four-legged friend.
Scamander, with its perfect blend of natural allure and contemporary amenities, beckons those in search of a life fully realized in the lap of Tasmania's coastal splendor – an epitome of the Top 10 Tasmania destinations that capture the essence of this picturesque island state.
https://www.greenislandpoint.com.au/
We Ponder House - Tasmanian Timber Interview
“Creating a handful of beautifully considered and finely constructed projects across the state of Tasmania, emerging architect Saxon Hall has been busy honing his craft in architecture and design for the last decade. Prior to establishing his own part-time practice Saxon Hall Architecture, Hall previously worked at one of Hobart’s leading architecture studios Morrison & Breytenbach Architects, where his inspiration to explore the limits and applications of Tasmanian Oak was ignited. Collaborating with a breadth of designers and tradespeople on his latest project, We Ponder House, Hall’s passion for using products low in embodied energy called for the use of Tasmanian Oak. Sustainability was also top of mind. As a nod to the state’s extensive use of the prized local timber in agriculture sheds that spot the scenic landscape – Tasmanian Oak was used for the home’s exterior but done with a modern and abstract twist.” - tasmaniantimber.com.au, accessed 20/11/23
“Principal and certified Passive House architect Michael Loubser of Align Architecture has been honing his knowledge and skill set in passive solar design for a number of years, focusing on Passivhaus and healthy building materials. He emphasises that the incorporation of both passive solar design and Passivhaus principles into the We Ponder home was essential to maximising the user’s comfort, particularly during colder months.” - tasmaniantimber.com.au, accessed 20/11/23
Read the full interview …… HERE
Architect/Designer: SAXON HALL architecture with Align Architecture
Interior Design: We Ponder
Client: Private
Location: Sorell, Tasmania
Date Completed: 2022
Home location picked by vibe not hearsay
The We Ponder clients chatting to realestate dot com about the strategies they used to keep their project within 10% of their budget amongst other things Tasmania…
“Designing a house amid rising, record-high construction prices was like “navigating a maze”.
“We stuck to the plan of what I advocate to my clients: a pragmatic approach that prevents overspending on design and applications, only to face exorbitant construction quotes later”
Checkout the remainder of the article HERE
Architecture: @align.architecture.au with @saxonhallarchitecture Interiors: @weponder_ Photographer: @tari.c.peterson
Photo: Ali Davis
Nurturing Architectural Talent: My Path as a Mentor in Tasmania's Architectural Landscape
Introduction
In the dynamic realm of architecture, mentorship serves as a beacon guiding emerging talents towards success. Recognizing this crucial role, the Australian Institute of Architects has established the National Mentoring Program, a platform designed to facilitate connections between experienced architects and the next generation. While my journey as a mentor in this program is set to begin, I am thrilled to share my anticipation and aspirations, particularly in the context of Tasmania's architectural community.
I’m keen to be joining the Australian Institute of Architects National Mentorship Program. I’ll be passing on my knowledge surrounding career progression, work-life balance, and how to balance building your portfolio as an emerging architect while still gaining valuable experience at established firms. This opportunity to contribute to the growth of future architects aligns seamlessly with my passion for nurturing creative minds and fostering the development of well-rounded professionals. Together, we will shape the architectural landscape, ensuring a vibrant and innovative future for the industry.
Photo: Jesse Bonde
Architectural Landscape in Tasmania: A Unique Canvas
Tasmania's architectural landscape is as unique and diverse as the island itself. From the vibrant city of Hobart to the picturesque town of Launceston, the demand for innovative architectural design in residential and commercial spaces is on the rise. The allure of architectural services in specific cities like Hobart is underscored by the need for sustainable, modern, and heritage-driven designs. As a prospective mentor, I'm eager to contribute to this landscape by sharing insights that align with the architectural ethos of Tasmania.
Mentoring Through the Lens of Tasmania
Participating in the National Mentoring Program facilitated by the Australian Institute of Architects and Mentorloop holds the promise of transcending geographical constraints. This is particularly valuable in Tasmania, where architectural talents might be scattered across the island. Whether it's a Tasmanian architect seeking architectural consultation in Launceston or a residential architect in Hobart seeking guidance, the digital interface of Mentorloop ensures seamless interactions irrespective of distance.
Photo: Ron Verdouw
Sculpting Architectural Futures: Matching Through Mentorloop
Mentorloop's specialized matching software holds the key to forming effective mentor-mentee partnerships. It's a tool that resonates with the unique needs of Tasmania's architectural community. Imagine a landscape architect in Tasmania being paired with a mentor skilled in sustainable architectural design. This curated approach fosters connections that tap into the essence of Tasmania's architectural identity, be it residential, commercial, or heritage-focused.
Sustainability and Innovation: Tasmania's Architectural Identity
Tasmania's natural beauty and commitment to sustainability make it an ideal setting for architects who prioritize innovative and eco-conscious designs. As a mentor, I am excited to explore sustainable architectural approaches with mentees who share a vision for creating structures that seamlessly blend with Tasmania's environment. Whether it's modern architectural concepts or the preservation of heritage through design, the journey is bound to be enriched by Tasmania's unique context.
Photo: Joe Grey
Embracing Tasmania's Architectural Diversity
From architectural drafting in Tasmania to landscape architecture, the diversity of skills and interests within the state's architectural community is truly remarkable. As a mentor, I look forward to engaging with emerging talents pursuing various paths, be it residential, commercial, or interior design. Together, we can contribute to the architectural portfolio of Tasmania by combining creative thought and practical skill.
Conclusion
As I prepare to embark on my role as a mentor in the Australian Institute of Architects' National Mentoring Program, I am energized by the prospect of contributing to Tasmania's architectural fabric. Through Mentorloop's innovative platform, I anticipate forming connections that resonate with Tasmania's architectural diversity – from sustainable design to heritage preservation. By guiding emerging architects in Tasmania, we can collectively shape the future of architectural practice on this captivating island.
You can find more information on the Australian Institute of Architects Mentor Program HERE
Photo: Ali Davis
The We Ponder Home - The Design Files - A Tonal Tasmanian Home Inspired By Mid-Century Design
The We Ponder Home has been featured over at The Design Files with a great story written by Christina Karras
“Working in collaboration with Align and Saxon Hall Architecture, the couple’s brief for their new home was to build a simple, unassuming three-bedroom, two-bathroom home – but each room had to have a ‘picture perfect’ outlook view of their serene one-hectare property, framed around a large oak tree.
Rose also looked to the mid-century era for inspiration, designing the open-plan living room’s sunken lounge — which was another of the couple’s few ‘non-negotiables’! Custom-made boucle cushions in a burnt orange colour help bring this retro vibe to life.” - Christina Karras // The Design Files
read more on the Tonal Tasmanian Home over at the Design Files HERE
Architecture: align with SAXON HALL architecture, Interiors: We Ponder, Photography: Tari Peterson
House of the Week
“Architecturally designed and built in 2017 this home has been meticulously and expertly pieced together using a beautiful mix of materials that results in a modern masterpiece. The open style kitchen, dining and living area feature sliding glass doors that optimize the picturesque views of the large rear yard and gum trees beyond, while melding together the inside and the outside livings spaces. These have also been strategically placed to take advantage of natural heat from the sun during the winter months, helping keep electricity costs down. The lounge room is slightly sunken and has a beautiful cosy feel, with a wood heater, exposed brick, a reverse cycle A/C and a heat transfer kit, to pump warm air into the bedrooms.”
Read more of the Berne Court House article HERE
Photography: Tari Peterson // https://www.taripeterson.com/
We Ponder Home - Coming Soon
Designed by SAXON HALL architecture with align.build In the picturesque landscapes of Southern Tasmania, a stunning architectural gem sits in its landscape - the We Ponder Home. This mid-century modern-inspired dwelling, designed for an interior designer client, seamlessly blends minimalist form with sustainable living principles. Clad in rough-sawn Tasmanian oak, reminiscent of the region's agricultural farm buildings, the home exudes an undeniable charm that captures the essence of the beautiful surroundings.
Photography: We Ponder // https://www.weponder.com.au/
At the heart of the We Ponder Home lies a commitment to sustainability. The incorporation of passive house principles ensures that the home maintains a comfortable living environment while minimizing its carbon footprint. The implementation of double-glazed windows guarantees exceptional insulation, keeping the interior cozy during harsh winters and cool during hot summers. A cavity batten drainage system eliminates any potential condensation issues, thus preserving the integrity of the home even in the coldest climates.
Innovative German pro clima wall and roof wraps further enhance the home's energy efficiency, promoting airtightness and reducing heat loss. The bulk earth wool insulation adds an eco-friendly touch, reducing energy consumption and ensuring a harmonious coexistence with nature.
Photography: We Ponder // https://www.weponder.com.au/
The We Ponder Home pays homage to the rustic charm of Tasmanian oak, beautifully juxtaposed against the clean lines of mid-century modern architecture. The rough-sawn cladding adds texture and character to the exterior, harmonizing perfectly with the breathtaking natural surroundings. As sunlight dances on the wooden surface throughout the day, the home seems to be at one with the landscape.
Inside, warm and inviting interiors await. The client's expertise as an interior designer is showcased through the thoughtful curation of bespoke Tasmanian handmade ceramic wall lights, seamlessly blending functionality with artistic expression. The interplay of light and shadow adds an ethereal quality to the space, transforming it into an ever-changing canvas.
Photography: We Ponder // https://www.weponder.com.au/
The home's design celebrates the timeless beauty of Tasmanian timbers. From the flooring to the cabinetry, the carefully selected timbers create a seamless flow throughout the living spaces, connecting the occupants with the land's rich history. The Fibonacci designer terrazzo adds a contemporary twist, blending effortlessly with the traditional materials, creating an eclectic yet harmonious space.
Photography: We Ponder // https://www.weponder.com.au/
The We Ponder Home's architectural brilliance is further underscored by the salt and pepper polished concrete slab, seamlessly integrating form and function. Its polished surface reflects natural light, amplifying the sense of openness and creating an inviting atmosphere. This modern touch elevates the overall design, making the home a true work of art.
I have worked professionally with Saxon on a number of residential projects in Tasmania, one of which being my own personal home. Saxon created a beautiful concept for the overall architecture of our home that we absolutely love. He is very professional and took onboard all of our needs and wants. Will continue to work with Saxon on future projects and would definitely recommend to others. - Rose We Ponder
Design Team: align.build with SAXON HALL architecture, Interiors by We Ponder, Engineering by D1CE
Hill St Hall House on Artedomus
Our recently completed kitchen at the #hillstreethallhome has been featured on the artedomus website. Joinery by Kitchen Centre & Built by Ryan Smith Carpentry & Joinery
You can check out more of the photos and the products used HERE
In the wilderness with Knights Rest by Saxon Hall - Australian Design Review
“The project evolved at a stage in my life in between jobs unsure of the direction I was heading and quickly became a pleasant reminder of why I wanted to become an architect.
“This was a project that will always remind me of the fun and beauty of architecture no matter how small.
you can ready the rest of the article by Clémence Carayol over at AUSTRALIAN DESIGN REVIEW
Regal Court For Sale
For the first time, a SAXON HALL architecture project has been listed for sale. We are looking forward to the outcome
Contemporary coastal paradise
Exuding contemporary elegance, and refreshing coastal style by award winning architect Saxon Hall, this remarkable home of superior quality offers luxurious living within the sought-after suburb of Seven Mile Beach.
Designed with family in mind, and to complement its waterside and natural surrounds, the property evokes a relaxing ambiance befitting of its address. Abundant light floods the home through extensive glazing, enhanced by vibrant timber and warm tones as well as ducted heating and cooling throughout to ensue year round comfort.
Sun-drenched open-plan living, with a central wood heater, extends to a fabulous deck, creating a seamless indoor to outdoor flow. Entertaining is a breeze, with servery windows opening out from the kitchen. The versatile floor-plan also offers a second family room at the opposite end of the home, ideal for children to play. - read more HERE - words by Peterswald for Property
see more of the project HERE
5 STEPS Tasmanian Architect SAXON HALL has been using to complete projects on time & budget!
Feel free to enter some details below and I will email through some further details for download on the steps I've been using to complete building projects on time and within budget in what has been labelled as the toughest building market in Tasmania ever!
Click on the link HERE or on the image below
Knights Rest Green Magazine
Some nice little words on the Bush Loo in issue 87 of Green Magazine, you can find more info HERE
WALKERS JOURNAL
“Knights Rest by SAXON HALL architecture was voted as the public’s favourite project entered in the 2022 Tasmanian Architecture Awards.
The project provides a simple amenities block to The Bruny Island Long Weekend and allows clients to use the facilities (with a choice of a loo with a view, or a more private lavatory), while ensuring the dash from the tent doesn’t result in frozen extremities, thanks to the wood fire next to the hand basin.
‘Architects have the ability to work across many scales and types of projects and bring value to projects both large and small. While this project is modest in both budget and scale (it’s a tiny 13m2!)”………read more HERE
KNIGHTS REST WINS - TAS ARCHITECTURE AWARDS PEOPLES CHOICE 2022
The people have spoken, the votes have been counted and the three most popular entries in this year’s Tasmanian Architecture Awards are Knight’s Rest by SAXON HALL architects (1st place), Dolphin Sands Studio by Matt Williams Architects (2nd place) and The Boathouse by Maguire and Devine Architects (3rd place). read more HERE
COMMUNAL SHELTER CONCEPT
Very close to home, this evolving communal shelter design offers a place for new residents to meet, interact and enjoy the 60 native species of native flora thriving on the site.
The striking form of the ARAMAX® - Fielders roof sheet has a strong connection to the rugged east coast of Tasmania whilst eliminating the cost and complexity of the building secondary roof
DESIGN DELIGHTS IN STATES BEST BUILDS
A great little write up by The Mercury talking about the broad diverse range of project types in the upcoming 2022 Tasmanian Architecture Awards held at the The Spring Bay Mill including our little project for Knights Rest for The Bruny Island Long Weekend
“From gorgeous homes, to glamping rest rooms, social housing to a creative arts school, the best of the best is on show in the annual Tasmanian Architecture Awards. This years awards highlight the work of two dozen projects showcasing the range of diverse architecture produced across the state” - Jarrad Bevan / The Mercury Newspaper/ 28.05.22
KNIGHTS REST / CASE STUDY JOURNAL
Knights Rest has recently been featured on Case Study Journal
“Knights Rest has provided me with the opportunity to explore a design/construction process and client/owner-builder relationship as a passion project disconnected from an architectural firm structure,” Hall tells Case Study Journal.
“The project evolved in a stage in my life in between jobs unsure of the direction I was heading and quickly became a pleasant reminder of why I wanted to become an architect. This was a project that will always remind me of the fun and beauty of architecture no matter how small.”
read the full interview HERE 🔗
BRUNY ISLAND FOOTINGS
Our latest micro project under construction on Bruny Island features a contemporary footing system that minimises site disturbance, halfs construction time and can be removed and reused at the end of its life cycle
Mega Anchor foundations reduce the need for costly excavation and drainage on sloping sites, preventing erosion and allows the structure to be built in accordance with the land's natural contour.
The Mega Anchor is quick and easy to instal and is fully load bearing as soon as it has been installed. There is no need to inspect the footings or wait for the concrete to dry
read more HERE
INSTITUTE OF ARCHITECTS SUPER STUDIO 2021
I had the privilege of mentoring two winning groups of students earlier in the year for the 2021 Australian institute of architects 2021 Super Studio design competition.
Sheet Music Box by PUI WAH (PHOEBE) TSE AND BERNADETTE CHILAM YIP took out second place at the University of Adelaide
PUI WAH (PHOEBE) TSE AND BERNADETTE CHILAM YIP
University of Adelaide, Master Year One
Is identity just about citizenship? Do we understand our immigrants? Can citizenship be tested? Ways to learning a culture? Common Language? Our journey starts with the family who is currently living on Christmas Island. Through the story of the Tamil family, it led us to question what identity is and does it define by citizenship. The strong sense of community spirit for the Tamil family. Biloela (their ‘hometown’ in Queensland) residents were extremely supportive. Before getting the ‘right’ to call this place their ‘home’, they are already accepted to be part of the Team Australia. Looking into our research for becoming a citizen, the process is long-winded. The authenticity behind the citizen test has raised questions. It seems like the citizen test was to block immigrant’s “un-Australian” values1, not adding anything to their “Australianness”2. It appeared to be a one direction approach which leads to misunderstanding for locals and immigrants which causes conflicts for both parties. In order to solve the conflicts or misunderstandings, we came up with ways of empowerment through music. Music is a universal language that binds people together. In music, they can understand each other without speaking the same language or share the same beliefs. In this music box, the program is suitable for all ages. It is designed for people to learn through interacting with others by ‘take, give, share’.
View the full submission here
AAACCPDC by QUADE HELM, MEKA RAHKMAT AND MARTIN DIESENDORF at The University of Tasmania took out third place
QUADE HELM, MEKA RAHKMAT AND MARTIN DIESENDORF
University of Tasmania
This proposal challenges conventions of architectural practice in an attempt to make the cultural shift towards reconciliation to First Nations people. It does this through the proposal of a new declaration.
View the full submission here
Congratulations to all entrants, The Australian Institute of Architects & the organisers
read more on Super Studio here