Buhwi Bira meaning ‘breathe’ in the local Bundjalung language is a self-contained studio with built in adaptability for multi-function from secondary dwelling to expanded house to music room. Opening out into a private pleasure garden featuring local bush rock walling, minimalist hoop pine lining and ‘shou sugi ban’ or traditional Japanese charred timber cladding, a small, unprepossessing dwelling offers quite intimate delights. A few simple moves ensure the main 21sq m, living/dining/kitchen/bed room feels spacious and accommodating – glazed walls extend the space out into garden courtyards, the high 4.5m ceiling with generous clerestory sky window provides a luminous interior, integrated kitchenette and storage including tilt-away queen size bed, uniform hoop pine detailing and minimalist clean lines settles the eye and expands the space.
