The Taylor Bay house takes its inspiration from the rugged, steep, native bush hillside it is on and the tranquil, yet expansive views of Lake Eildon. The brief demanded a reconciliation of these over-scaled conditions with a design that would sit comfortably within them. The plan comprises two wings which are slightly cranked around a central courtyard to respond to the curve in the contours of the site. Cut into a steep hillside, the 2 level house is anchored by an exposed, boarded, off-from concrete retaining wall which features along the whole south side of the interior. The long floor plan and the raking ceilings ensure each room of the house is provided with uninhibited views of Lake Eildon. The carefully considered eaves also ensure winter sun penetrates deep into the interior while summer sun is kept out. The courtyard is at the centre of the layout and has a mature tree growing at the ‘pivot’ and a corresponding circular cut out in the roof. A palette of natural materials includes hardwood timber cladding which will ‘grey off’ over time to ensure the house blends into the native bush setting.