Unfolded Capsule


Overnight Accommodation for Coastal Track Walkers



Individual  Project  
Little Bay, NSW, Australia
Instructor: Wendy Lewin
Course Convener: Glenn Murcutt



The balance between architecture and nature has always been a profound area of exploration for architects. With the rapid pace of urbanization, modern architecture increasingly challenges the boundaries of development, often encroaching upon natural environments that were once untouched.

This project seeks to create an anti-urban retreat, located beside a picturesque bay that seamlessly blends the sea and mountains—some of Australia's most distinctive natural elements. Travelers, after spending the day immersed in nature's beauty, will return to the house in the evening, seeking not just shelter but a warm, reliable sanctuary. The goal is to minimize the impact on the pristine forest and avoid introducing the rigid, modern structures typical of urban environments. Instead of having travelers transition from one concrete jungle to another, the design aspires to offer an entirely different, more harmonious experience.

I vividly recall when I shared my initial design with Glenn, and he remarked, "It is too urban." In response, I began simplifying the design, moving away from extravagant techniques and seeking a quiet, minimalistic peace. It became clear that these simple, uncluttered spaces are what travelers truly seek once they leave behind the urban life they know.