Nestled beneath the understory of large mature rainforest species, sitting alongside natural creeks and tall tree ferns, Raintree House quietly awaits its seasonal visitors. The family has owned this unique property for generations and use it as a summer escape.  The existing holiday home had seen better days so it was decided to build a new ‘home-away-from-home’, one that would capitalise on the rainforest environment. It was essential that each room in the new home framed vistas of these elements, and brought the occupants up close and personal with nature. Capturing breezes and allowing natural light to filter into the home was a central consideration in the design. Split over three storeys, the second level hovers above the first floor, sheltering both internal and external living spaces. Operable glass walls allow this level to be compartmentalised, giving flexibility to these spaces allowing visitors to enjoy Queensland’s weather. Black steel cladding contrasts the white feature brick while dressed timber joinery softens throughout. The new home is understated in many ways and sympathetic to the distinctive natural qualities of the site.