Oculus House is a new family home in Alphington, built to stay comfortable across the seasons with minimal reliance on mechanical heating and cooling. Pickering Joinery’s windows and doors were fitted throughout to support this, working alongside the home’s insulation and orientation to regulate temperature naturally.
Designed by Ben Callery Architects and built by Truewood Constructions, the home takes its name from the circular skylight — the oculus — that sits above the outdoor living area, drawing natural light into the centre of the home.
Pickering Joinery supplied custom IV68 Tilt & Turn windows and Lift & Slide doors throughout, chosen by Ben Callery Architects to meet the specific thermal and airflow requirements of the home’s design. On the northern side, the glazing is positioned to let in low-angle winter sun, warming the home passively during cooler months.
Electrically operated highlight windows work with the Tilt & Turn function to draw cooling breezes through the living spaces in warmer weather, reducing the need for air conditioning. Fitted with LowE double glazing, the windows also help limit heat gain in summer while retaining warmth in winter.
Whether capturing winter light or managing summer airflow, Pickering Joinery’s windows and doors play a central role in the everyday comfort and performance of Oculus House.