Solaris Pinnacle is located on Rottnest Island and serves as a vacation home focused on harnessing natural light. The design aims to reduce dependence on artificial lighting by allowing the sun to influence the daily activities of its occupants. Central to this concept is a unique kinetic roof that adjusts throughout the day, creating a close relationship between indoor spaces and the changing outdoor environment.

Kinetic Roof Mechanism

The home features a solar-powered sliding roof. This innovative element is crucial for the way light interacts with the various rooms. As sunlight shifts during the day, the roof opens up, letting in natural light that brightens the interiors. This design choice not only enhances practical usage but also enriches the moments spent within the home, offering different lighting effects as the day progresses.

Spatial Lighting Dynamics

At 10:00 AM, the bedroom receives gentle light through a small opening, creating a pleasant waking experience. The bathroom benefits from a long skylight, allowing filtered sunlight to create a calm atmosphere. By 2:00 PM, the kitchen shines with brightness thanks to a glazed ceiling and large openings, ensuring a lively space throughout the day. This structured approach to light distribution adds to the comfort of living in the home.

Privacy and Nighttime Comfort

As evening falls, the roof plays an important role in maintaining privacy and comfort. The gradual closing of the roof, controlled by balanced counterweights, marks the transition from day to night. When closed, it protects against the morning sun while also offering a clear view of the stars at night for those who enjoy stargazing. This design respects the need for both peace and connection to nature.

Tactile Materiality

The design incorporates timber battens in the bathroom to create light patterns that enhance the space's sensory experience. This choice supports a vision of a home that interacts with its surroundings, emphasizing the natural qualities of light. The focus on how light plays within the rooms highlights the thoughtful intention behind each design decision, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere throughout the home.