GADIGAL COUNTRY. A compact secondary dwelling above a new carport set amidst Glebe’s prime Heritage buildings as a contemporary interpretation of Reuss Street’s simple historic stable forms.
The brief for a “granny flat” in its literal meaning evolved over the course of the project into flexible small-scale living. Plus a steel-framed awning and exterior joinery to the rear of the existing home.
A simple material palette of Cemintel Barestone with matching Colorbond roof and Danpalon walling to the rear keeps focus on the form of the surrounding historic stables. The modern, non-traditional garage-top studio envelope together with the proposed 2 1/2 storey height and uncovered historic pipework proved a challenge in negotiations with authorities in this prime Heritage Conservation Zone.
Further planning challenges included boundary to boundary fire-rated construction, limited access (no side access), detailed solar access studies, cross ventilation and visual privacy.
Visual privacy to a strata building was maximised by employing slotted folding shutters over the length of windows and balcony, which would permit glimpses out when closed but not in. To the rear, the garage-top studio is separated from the main dwelling through translucent walling, which, back-lit at night, gently illuminates the existing garden.
Cross ventilation is achieved via openings to the rear and front of the building. Rising heat is extracted through operable skylights at the top of the double-height space.
The compact dwelling’s efficient floor plan is enhanced by inbuilt, storage-maximising joinery throughout. A rainwater tank is provided on the garage level.
The owners are currently using “Studio Reuss” successfully as an AirBnB.
Co-designers: Angela Rheinlaender with Monika Proepper
Builder : Green Envy Projects
Structural Engineer: Cantilever
Sustainability Consultant: Integreco
Heritage Consultant: Julie Mackenzie
Lighting Designer: Petra Kleegraefe
Photography: David Haseler and Angela Rheinlaender and courtesy of “Studio Reuss”
