The Trunk House

Set on a forested site located in Victoria’s Central Highlands, the Trunk House is a rustic cabin with a strong tie to the land. Built by Paul Morgan Architects, the home sits on a hill facing a stretch of dense forest, with an overhanging eave and glass curtain windows providing a way for occupants to further connect with the surrounding nature.

Using local, sustainable wood found in the forest, the cabin is clad with the material inside and out. The exterior is surrounded with rustic branches that are naturally shaped into triangle supports called tree forks. The forks are salvaged from the commercial tree logging industry that useless to the loggers, but perfect for both load-bearing, and to infuse architectural style. With the aid of internal metal supports, the tree forks were fashion to line the perimeter of trunk house, connecting the ground to the sloping roof, while utilizing an otherwise obsolete wood.

To clear the grounds for the home, a mobile milling machine was brought in. As the trees were harvested, they were milled and cured into boards, and used to furnish the interior of the home. The process was about as locally sourced as one could get, reducing the need to import or export wooden building materials to the site of the Trunk House.

Inside, Morgan created built-in furniture, and wood platforms lined with cushions create a sectional. The sectional back can be used as a table for drinks or shelving, and has built in lighting. The sitting room is lined with sliding glass doors that reach from floor to ceiling, bringing the forest inside. In warmer months, the doors can be slid open to extend the living room area to the outside porch. The large overhanging roof protects the area below from wind and rain, allowing the open plan to be enjoyed all year.