-
Architects: Corben Architects
- Area: 588 m²
- Year: 2008
-
Photographs:Alina Gozina
Text description provided by the architects. This new, three storey, four bedroom, north facing residence, sited on a battle axe block was designed to take maximum advantage of outstanding water views and maintain absolute privacy to the adjacent neighbours.
The building replaced a small older style single level house and had to be skilfully designed to adhere to local approving authority’s view sharing policy and ensure minimal view loss to the neighbours behind.
The house is concealed behind a timber battened garage door and entry gate to the street but then reveals itself as one enters the site and moves through the landscaped garden from the front gate to the front door. Only glimpses of the panoramic water view that lies beyond are revealed along this journey.
It is only upon entering the house and moving into the large open plan Living/Dining/Kitchen that the full impact of the stunning view is felt. The substantial living space with its large sliding windows and high ceilings flows out and becomes one with the outside encouraging the indoor/outdoor lifestyle.
The main entry, two living areas and guest wing are located on the middle level with three bedrooms on the upper level, the main one designed as a luxury suite. The lower level incorporates a large rumpus / media room and store areas.
The building is a simple rectilinear form of concrete and masonry construction, carefully layered with timber battening and sandstone cladding to present a modern home with a focus on natural materials and clear design principles.
The interior finishes incorporate American Oak timber floors to the living areas, Grey Limestone honed stone floors to the circulation areas, Walnut veneered joinery, white polyurethane cupboards, Quartz kitchen benchtops and Marble slabs in the bathrooms to create a contemporary, sophisticated interior with a warm inviting feel.
Energy saving options were adopted including an operable skylight over the central core allowing natural light and ventilation, timber slated screens provide sun control, concrete floors and roof to provide thermal mass and Energy Efficient glazing to the external windows and doors. The house also consists of a rainwater harvesting system comprising of 30,000L rainwater tank which is used for garden irrigation and flushing of toilets.
The finished house is a fine example of an understated but luxurious house that takes maximum advantage of a difficult site.
