Despite or perhaps because of the difficulty of trying to spot the architecture in the blackness of extremely high contrast photos (which to their credit do much to simulate a bleaching tropical light), this is an ideal recipient of the Small Project Award.

The technology and detailing are more than appropriate to the location and climate, whilst the spaces are rich in seductive atmosphere and ambience without any of today’s too familiar stylistic mannerisms. The symmetrical plan describes the double coding of use (family and visitors) and the verandah offers a treetop experience as an alternative to media amusement.

The shiny roof is by now such a familiar Australian trope that it is almost surprising to see it here returned to its locus and reference of origin – the longhouse in the jungle. Over and above, this project boasts an exemplary list of ecological and environmental credentials: sustainable re-forestation, locally harvested materials, solar energy, rainwater collection, biotechnologies and minimal site disturbance.

As updated vernacular, it is overwhelming in its taking up of the responsibility for environmental stewardship; a lesson both as architecture of quality and for the political correctness of its sustainability manifesto.