Two duplex townhouses were proposed to replace an existing weatherboard house. The brief asked for low-maintenance, energy efficient units with a point of difference and uniqueness. Having spent time in Japan, the owner's appreciation for Japanese culture and architecture were strong drivers for the design aesthetic.
Traditional Japanese armour provided inspiration for the design aesthetic and mateirals palette, which was kept simple and consists of more refined finishes such as Rhinezinc, terracotta and timber cladding and render to highlight building forms. 'Terrela' cladding acts as a breathable wall to help increase thermal performance, while high-level clerestory windows allow for cross-flow ventilation and heat extraction in summer.