Torquil Canning House

BOOKINGS OPEN 12PM AEDT, THURSDAY 6 OCTOBER 2022

Architect: JAWS Architects (1995, addition 2003)

This house comprises a sequence of three distinct pavilions, set within and forming a series of courtyards nestled into an existing escarpment and connected by a circulation spine running along the contours of the hillside. The soul of the house finds its ultimate expression in the massive bluestone entrance wall running perpendicular to the main axis.

Clever contrasts have been created between open space and the security of the reassuring constant presence of the solid wall and combined with the natural textures and colours of the materials ensure a luminous warmth, an ethereal light, and an almost monastic silence. The easterly aspect with its breathtaking views across the Derwent estuary to Bruny Island belies the adversity of the site, subject to extremes of weather including winter snowfalls.

Situated in its foothills and placed on a shelving of the steep pastoral landscape, an existing bluestone cottage constructed by the owner becomes a latent genesis for the composition.

Tours: Saturday 12 November, 10 am, 10.30 am, 11 am, 11.30 am, 12 pm, 12.30 pm, 1 pm, 1.30 pm, 2 pm, 2.30 pm, 3 pm, 3.30 pm

Duration: 20 minutes

Access Details: Please park in Menuggana Road, walk down steep gravel driveway. Please wear sensible shoes.