Conceived as a merging of European courtyard and Asian pavilion typologies, Elysium 36 furthers the benefits of these typologies by using passive design principles to inform the basic house layout. A fundamental aspect of the design is the north-south orientation of both the living spaces and the bedroom wing. The plan is also suggestive of a new interrelationship of conventional interior spaces with covered outdoor spaces, lush pocket gardens, covered links and screening devices. These relationships assist with ventilation and solar access as well as enhancing the integration of landscape and architecture. The compositional arrangement of space enables the full extent of the site to be drawn into the daily experience of the house. Central to the composition is the courtyard - an occupiable lawn. The courtyard addresses the living and kitchen areas and is framed by the lap pool to the east. The courtyard device allows the separated parts of the house to remain visually connected across the courtyard, and establishes a flexible social structure that accommodates a multiplicity of family situations. Externally, the simple overall form of the building contrasts and emphasises the material juxtapositions and the spatial experiences contained within.