Hayley Pryor's Oculus: A Subtropical Shed Retreat in Byron Bay
Hayley Pryor Architect has completed Oculus, a compact timber retreat in Byron Bay's hinterland that reimagines the traditional Australian shed for subtropical living. The 120-square-meter home is centered on a circular skylight that uses stack ventilation to draw hot air out, keeping the interior cool in the humid climate. The layout eschews walls, using integrated joinery to define sleeping, eating, and bathing zones. A sleeping platform doubles as a window ledge and daybed, with hidden storage. Large sliding doors open the dining nook to the landscape. The building envelope uses a vapor-permeable wrap and ventilated cavity to manage moisture. Exterior materials include mini orb sheeting and local hardwood; interior surfaces are refined plywood. Removable eaves control solar gain and rain. Oculus can function as a retreat, permanent residence, or backyard studio. The project follows a lineage of small-footprint structures like Two-Fold Studio's Fairfax garden room and Delve Architects' Kim-oflage studio in London.
Key facts
- Oculus is located in the hinterland of Byron Bay, Australia.
- The home features a circular skylight that enables stack ventilation.
- The layout uses integrated joinery instead of traditional walls.
- The sleeping area is a platform that transitions into a daybed.
- Large sliding doors erase the boundary between interior and exterior.
- The building envelope includes a vapor-permeable wall wrap and ventilated cavity.
- Exterior materials are mini orb sheeting and local hardwood.
- Removable eaves provide dual defense against solar heat and rain.
Entities
Artists
- Hayley Pryor
Institutions
- Hayley Pryor Architect
- Two-Fold Studio
- Delve Architects
Locations
- Byron Bay
- Australia
- Northern Rivers
- Fairfax
- London