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The Gilay Estate is a 40 m², off-grid luxury accommodation designed by Cameron Anderson Architects (CAARCH). Located in Quirindi, New South Wales, Australia, the project was completed in 2024 and is available for short-term stays. The estate is a minimalist, single-story retreat that honors the local landscape and incorporates sustainable, self-sufficient features. The name "Gilay" is the Gomeroi word for moon, a detail that reflects the design team's consultation with a local Aboriginal Elder during the process.
The structure features a distinctive, sloping sheet metal roof with deep overhangs that protect the building from the harsh Australian sun. This roof form echoes the simple silhouette of a tent or shed, lending a humble, earthy feel.
The exterior is clad in charred timber, a nod to the traditional Indigenous practice of fire management and regeneration. The interior uses warm, natural timber, symbolizing regrowth.
The 40 m² interior is largely open-plan, with the king-sized bed integrated into the main living space to maximize the experience of the panoramic views.
Large double-glazed windows and a curved cutaway in the roof are strategically placed to frame spectacular views of the Liverpool Plains, the nearby mountain ranges, and the sky for moon-gazing.
The Gilay Estate was designed for full off-grid functionality and self-sufficiency. A 6.4-kW rooftop solar array with an 11.4-kW battery provides all of the building's energy. A 60,000-liter tank collects 100% of the rainwater needed for the accommodation. Strategic glazing and generous roof overhangs minimize heat gain from the summer sun. The project also incorporates greywater systems and native landscaping, further cementing its low-impact approach.
Project credits
Architects: Cameron Anderson Architects
Builder: Aztek Constructions
Photography: Morning Swim
Landscape Architects: Somewhere Landscape Architects
Structural Engineering: Kelley Covey Group
Environmental Engineering: Building Sustainability Assessments
Bushfire Consultant: BEMC
Solar: Black Lab Solar
Location: Quirindi, New South Wales, Australia
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CAARCH:
Cameron Anderson Architects (CAARCH) is an award-winning Australian architectural studio focusing on sustainable, context-specific, and innovative design in regional areas like Mudgee, New South Wales. The firm provides full architectural and interior design services for a variety of projects, including residential, educational, and commercial facilities. Led by founder Cameron Anderson, CAARCH emphasizes a collaborative process and the use of BIM technologies to provide clients with innovative and thoughtful design solutions. Their design approach often prioritizes functionality and budget, alongside a deep respect for the environment.
