Holocene House is more than just a home; it’s an immersive experience in nature. Designed by CplusC Architects & Builders, this carbon-positive sanctuary embraces its coastal and bushland surroundings with a lush, living water system, a regenerative approach to sustainability, and a design philosophy that prioritises well-being over size.
Perched between Sydney’s Shelly Beach and a national park, the site offers stunning ocean views at the front and untouched bushland at the rear. But this prime location also brought unique challenges. With a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating of 29 to meet and the requirement for a bandicoot corridor to allow nocturnal foraging, the design had to work in harmony with its environment. The result? A house that doesn’t just sit within the landscape but actively supports it.
At the heart of Holocene House is water – a living, breathing element that flows through the home like a rainforest creek. Entering the house feels like stepping into a natural sanctuary, ascending over stepping stones alongside a cascading waterfall. The water, filtered by a biofiltration system of ponds, reeds, and charcoal, collects in a natural swimming pool, which not only provides a serene focal point but also supports the coastal ecosystem. Overhead, a canopy of greenery shades the home, reinforcing the feeling of being immersed in nature.
Unlike many Sydney homes that prioritise ocean views above all else, Holocene House turns inward, focusing on its living core. The dramatic double-height living space is washed in colour from a patchwork of stained-glass windows, creating a kaleidoscope of light that shifts throughout the day.
This playful use of colour and form reframes the relationship with Sydney’s harbour-centric culture, offering a more intimate, contemplative interaction with the natural world. A spiral staircase leads to a rooftop garden where the expansive views can still be enjoyed – but on the home’s own terms.
Sustainability isn’t an afterthought here; it’s the foundation of every decision. The home generates more energy than it consumes, thanks to a photovoltaic system that produces 20% more energy than the family needs. A 15-kilolitre underground rainwater tank ensures water self-sufficiency, while greywater feeds the surrounding native plants. The natural swimming pool acts as both a reservoir and an ecological support system, reinforcing the home’s regenerative ethos.
Clad in spotted gum Shou Sugi Ban – a Japanese method of charring timber to enhance its durability – Holocene House embraces low-embodied-energy materials and non-toxic finishes, proving that beauty and sustainability can go hand in hand. This isn’t just a house that minimises harm; it actively gives back, producing more than it takes and setting a new benchmark for Australian sustainable living.
Holocene House is a testament to what’s possible when architecture aligns with nature rather than competes against it. It’s a home that breathes, flows, and thrives – a true sanctuary in every sense of the word.
