Low house stretched along a wooded hillside at dusk, with warm interior light visible through broad glazing.

Benchland Earth Shelter

The Benchland Earth Shelter was prompted in part by the long history of earth-sheltered dwelling in the Interior, including Indigenous pit-house traditions. Rather than reproducing those forms, the study looks at the underlying relationship between shelter and ground. A long, narrow dwelling is set into the bench, using the earth for thermal stability and protection from summer heat, wildfire and exposure.

Arrival is by a wide stair cut across the long axis of the house. A raised roof monitor brings daylight into the centre and allows warm air to escape through high operable glazing. A heavy concrete element at the entry adds thermal mass, while the narrow plan keeps the living spaces close to daylight and air.

Outside, the roof stays close to the surrounding grade and the terrace extends only one bay before giving way to native sagebrush. The study tests whether a house can be embedded in the bench rather than placed on top of it, using the ground itself as part of its environmental response.

Architectural sketch of Benchland Earth Shelter showing a low pavilion set into the bench beneath mature trees, with the roof extending over the living space and terrace.
Architectural sketch of Benchland Earth Shelter showing the pavilion nested into the slope, with a raised roof form, sheltered outdoor space and long views across the landscape.
Architectural rendering of the Benchland Earth Shelter kitchen beneath a concrete ceiling, with a large roof opening bringing daylight onto the island.
Architectural rendering of the Benchland Earth Shelter entry, framed by thick earth-toned walls with a narrow view back toward the hillside.
Architectural rendering of the Benchland Earth Shelter covered outdoor room at dusk, with deep roof shade, concrete walls and a perforated screen facing the setting sun.
Floor plan of Benchland Earth Shelter showing a long linear house embedded into the contours, with bedrooms at one end and shared living spaces opening along the downhill side.