Hidden on a hill overlooking Australia’s Pittwater Bay, Rob Brown’s design for the James-Robertson house happily opens itself (and its occupants) to all that Mother Nature can dish out. The three structures that make up the James Robertson residence are framed in black coated aluminum and steel. With the buildings’ black aluminum and steel frames, the red brown of the copper, the teak timber decks, and the landscaping of the arrival path, the architects (Casey Brown) have created a sense of both naturality and nauticality. There’s an atmosphere that links the architecture and quintessentially Australian location and light qualities to certain ancient sensibilities of Japan. More images after the jump!

The living room structure soars to two stories, with banks of glass louvers at the upper level providing cross ventilation.

Dougal James-Robertson explains that with all the glass doors open, the couple is “fully in touch with whatever’s happening naturally.” Contrary to what the image here portrays, this is not always a good thing, as the weather can pack a wallop with intense rain and wind.

Set high on a cliff along the south end of the beach, this residence of three glass-and-copper pavilions offers a mighty reward for conquering the steep ascent.

Caroline Casey designed the curving dining table, which is surrounded by Hans Wegner’s Wishbone chairs. Suspended over the table is an old Aboriginal fishing trap.

Dougal James-Robertson studies the expansive views that extend all the way to the Barrenjoey headland many miles away with the use of a handy telescope. The sliding glass wall makes the kitchen feel like an outdoor room.

The family dog enjoys the shade provided by the corrugated-copper roof overhangs.

Caroline Casey designed the bed and built-ins in the master bedroom.

Even the master bath is open to the surrounding water.