This low budget project sought a design solution that was derived from its inner suburban context and highly resource efficient
The project brief required the provision of new rear living spaces as well as some internal modifications & rectification work to the existing residence. The site has slight slope to the rear and an Eastern aspect.
The form of the additions draws reference from the seemingly ubiquitous lean-to structures prevalent at the rear of post war housing throughout the suburb. Two skillion roof forms were juxtaposed to form living areas that span across the rear of the house and open to the garden. The resulting roof form provides a highly efficient building envelope: the surface area of the additions are around 12% less than if a flat roof / flat ceiling solution had been employed with the same built volume. This in turn translates to increased thermal and reduced capital consumption. An innovative structural system of laminated timber fins was devised to support the form while maintaining substantial glazing areas facing the garden and simultaneously providing shading as the sun transitions Northward.
The existing “rabbit warren” planning was modified and a laundry, study, bath room and ensuite were added within the existing house. A plywood “chute” connects and delineates the original house from the new additions. Spatial interconnectivity is emphasised by a sliding panel that connects the new living areas to the study.
The building envelope provides substantial resource efficiency in both material fabrication and on going energy consumption. Both high performance glass and double glazing were utilised. Passive solar radiation is managed by strategically placed openings as well as an automated operable roof window at the ceiling apex which enables hot air to quickly dissipate. The stained blades are simultaneously structure, finished surface and sun shading using locally sourced laminated timber. Other than staining, no additional lining, substrate or embellishment was required.