We were commissioned by the clients of this project to take their conceptual ideas and improve the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the design. We worked closely with the clients to produce a home that has retro and industrial influences on their steep property which has fantastic 180° mountain views to the north.
Heavy two story masonry construction provides a strong anchoring element to the lightweight skillion roofs, glass and angled posts projected into the open space views beyond. A red cantilevered second storey box creates a focal point for the approach to the house.
This is a mezzanine style home with bedrooms and service zones within the anchored element to the south and expansive cantilevered open plan living spaces enjoying the northern views.
The range of construction materials include cast-concrete benches, polished concrete floors and raw face-block walls of the kitchen to give an honest and semi-industrial introduction to the house. The living areas with polished timber floors, plywood ceilings and expanses of glass give a feeling of lightness and warmth. Floor to ceiling windows give expansive views and allow ample ventilation.
A wrap-around verandah provides generous outdoor living spaces and deep shade to the interiors of the house. Angled blade walls and roof overhangs are carefully designed to provide summer shade and allow deep winter sun penetration.
Efficiency of space has been a high priority for the project. Minimal/no corridor space is used. All rooms are a comfortable size, whilst not being overly large. All living rooms allow for flexibility of furniture layouts.
Thermal mass walls and floor within the masonry mass element are shaded throughout the summer to provide internal coolth. During winter months direct sunshine enters through clerestory windows, warming the thermal mass walls, providing winter warmth.
The ample ventilation and light provided by the double height living space allows the one-room-deep masonry mass element of the house to share that ventilation and light, ensuring a very comfortable home throughout the year.
