Our brief called for the demolition of a poor rear alteration and construction of extensions in its place. The works comprised a renovation of the existing building and new single storey rear additions incorporating pool, cellar and the main living facilities for a young family. The site planning was laid out to respond and maximize solar gain with the long northerly boundary. To achieve this, the bulk of the new work was built up to the south and rear eastern boundary, save for light and ventilation wells that span the south boundary. The design response was concerned with how the new work would connect with the existing building in a physical sense. An internal brick path, constructed from bricks found on the site formed the junction between old and new and continued from entry, comprising the new work and terminating with a garden outlook.
The existing conditions were extremely poor with ordinary day light that required artificial support during the day and a challenged connection with the outdoor space. The inhabitants now enjoy a well zoned home that retains a sense of the intimacy that relates to the scale of the original home. The occupants enjoy natural light, fresh breezes through the habitable spaces and improved recreational conditions including a swimming pool. The living room has a TV, but is hidden behind a sliding polished plaster screen and now the record player has emerged after years in a box.
The project incorporates an extensive number of passive design features. The south and east walls are generally reverse or insulated double brick on concrete slab. As the living areas all face north, sun studies were undertaken to omit high summer sun from the dwelling's interior, yet encourage the entry of the low winter sun. This was assisted by elevating sills 400mm above floor level, which provided a zone for hydronic heating panels. The long length of the new work provided opportunities for light and ventilation wells along the southern side of the building. Each new habitable room benefits from cooling southerly breezes. During this summer's 45 degree heat, the owners had just moved in and reported internal temperatures of around 27 degrees. We encouraged the clients not to invest in air-conditioning, but just to relocate an existing one to the home office. 2KW of grid connected solar panels were provided, solar hot water, all of which are located in a north facing roof that is otherwise not visible from any aspect in the garden. All new windows are double glazed and casement openables are terrific for ventilation. The energy rating for the new work exceeds 6 stars.
