Baldwin O'Bryan Architects

Flowerdale

Ecological. Elegant. Earth‑Embedded Homes.

Underground Houses | Underground Home Builders – Baldwin O’Bryan Architects
Residential • Victoria

Flowerdale — Earth-Sheltered House

Set into the hillside with a planted roof and robust concrete shell, this underground home balances bushfire resilience, thermal stability and a calm, light-filled interior.

Aerial of Flowerdale earth-sheltered house with planted roof
Location: Flowerdale, VIC Type: Earth-sheltered residence Strategy: Bushfire-resistant detailing

Design Overview

Earth berms and a planted roof temper the building’s microclimate while deep window reveals protect openings. The plan uses courtyards and slots to bring light and air deep into the home, maintaining privacy and a strong landscape connection.

  • Thermal mass and earth coverage smooth daily temperature swings.
  • Off-form concrete shell for durability and low maintenance.
  • Protected glazing and ember-guarded vents for resilience.

Principles of Earth-Sheltering Bushfire-Resistant Houses

Bushfire & Comfort Strategy

  • Non-combustible exterior and sealed cavities reduce ember risk.
  • Deep reveals and protected openings limit radiant heat exposure.
  • Thermal mass + earth cover provide steady, passive comfort.