Set on nearly 50 hectares, this former dairy property near Wollombi, New South Wales, was designed by Peter Stutchbury Architecture and built between 2012 and 2017. Called Vista House, it sits on a plateau above grassland, wetlands and surrounding escarpments, reached via a driveway that follows the contours of the site.

The Australian home is designed around a central courtyard enclosed on three sides by rammed-earth walls. Living spaces are arranged around this core, with sliding timber doors allowing rooms to open directly to the landscape.

A lightweight roof spans the house independently of the enclosing walls. Its deep overhang provides shade and draws light into the courtyard while collecting rainwater for the home’s off-grid systems. Materials are limited to rammed earth, recycled brick, blackbutt timber, corrugated iron and polycarbonate. A concrete-floored kitchen and living space forms the centre of the plan, with views across the valley.

Accommodation includes three bedrooms, a study and a separate cabin. Terraces and outdoor rooms extend the living spaces beyond the enclosed footprint. Interested parties should contact Modern House for pricing.