Yerranya House / Base Architecture

Curated by ArchDaily

Architects: Base Architecture
Area: 450 m²
Year: 2016
Photographs:Christopher Frederick Jones
Manufacturers: Caroma, Ulrich Aluminium Cladding
Builder: Murphy’s Builders

Text description provided by the architects. Yerranya is a response to a growing family’s needs along with wanting to capture the most of a spectacular site. Situated on an unusually shaped sloping block, the angular plan fans outward to embrace the ocean breezes and the expansive views across the dunes.

The success of this project hinged upon spatial planning efficiencies, simplicity of construction and careful consideration of the functional and spatial relationships which arise out of the changing lifestyle of the clients and their growing family. While a key driver of the brief was to capture the coastal aspects, the view to Mt Coolum was one prominent aspect the client was keen to frame in the space.

Designed as an entertainer’s home, it also needed to house a family with 3 kids, so required distinct separation between different areas of the home in order for all spaces to be occupied concurrently. The programme of spaces changed during sketch design as connection to views and outdoor spaces were tested. The creation of dual living spaces on different levels creates the flexibility of the use of different spaces for different occasions. The living on the upper level adds that connection to the kitchen so is used more for family interaction, while the rumpus space on the lower level allows for the children to have their own breakout space which directly connects to the main grassed and pool area which creates the hub of the house. All the kids and guest bedrooms are situated on the middle level which have the benefit of sitting within the dunal zone that borrows from a native green outlook.

The upper level which has the kitchen, dining and living spaces captures the southerly coastal breeze in the afternoon and a bridge from the living leads into the master bed which has taken the opportunity to maximise openings to capture the uninterrupted view out to Mt Coolum.

The mezzanine level was born out of the clients need to work from home at different times but with a strong ethos that the space would be able to capture the best aspects of the site. Through efficient structural and architectural design the mezzanine was able to be squeezed under the allowable height limit to give the clients a space they can retreat to and work, and have the best possible view on offer.

The attention to detail the project deserved was appreciated by all involved. At each stage of design and construction, conversations between the client, architect, builder, and other trades or consultants ensured the vision for the house was understood at all levels. Whether explaining timber cladding junctions, understanding operability of openings, or developing landscaping, all had an active role in ensuring that the finished work represented the intent.