Highgate Hill Cottage
By Atelier Chen Hung
Highgate Hill Cottage reinterprets the traditional character house abundant in inner-city Brisbane. The presence of a stormwater easement on the site constrained the buildable area, prompting a ‘lift and build under’ method prevalent in similar houses. The challenging proportions brought about by the lifting process have been reconciled through the adoption of a playful materiality and rhythmic facade, taking cues from the existing pre-1911 workers cottage.
The need for a flexible space with ground-level access was a key to the spatial organisation of the cottage. This space can be used as a home office, or as an additional bedroom for a multi-generational living arrangement, with both requiring separation of access from the public realm. The house’s close relationship to the street is mediated through a timber-screened undercroft space shrouding the building’s front, providing a secure and insect-proof entry point while layering light and views to the outside.
The textural timber exterior cladding was achieved through the use of a black stain, emphasising the wood’s natural variegation. This results in a exterior finish which catches the sunlight, while softly receding in the shade.
LOCATION
Highgate Hill, QLD
COMPLETED
2022
CONTRACTOR
Greg Thornton Constructions
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
Westera Partners
PHOTOGRAPHER
James Hung
Professionals used in
Highgate Hill Cottage
More projects from
Atelier Chen Hung
About the
Professional
Atelier Chen Hung is an architectural practice with experience in the fields of private residential, multi-residential, retail, commercial and installation projects.
Founded by Melody Chen and James Hung in 2008, the practice is driven by a multidisciplinary approach, where collaboration is encouraged throughout the design and construction process.
A focus on exploring ideas, paired with a pragmatic perspective, has enabled the creation of spaces that are highly refined, memorable and functional.
With core values shaped by individual project briefs, budgets and sites, A–CH works to deliver quality solutions that are responsive to each client and their particular needs.
In 2012, the practice is awarded the Best of State (QLD) Commercial Design and Commendation for Installation Design at the Australian Interior Design Awards.
In 2013, A–CH is the winner of Houses Awards for New House Under 200sqm and received the AIA National Architecture Awards for Small Project Architecture.
Wallpaper Magazine’s 2014 Architects Directory have selected A–CH as one of 20 world’s best young architectural practices.
In 2016, A-CH received two awards in the 2016 NSW Architecture Awards for Residential Architecture – Houses (New) and Sustainable Architecture.
A-CH’s Ocean Shores house has been featured on Grand Designs Australia TV Season 7, Episode 5.
Atelier Chen Hung is an A+ Practice Member of the Australian Institute of Architects.
- ArchiPro Member since2022
- Follow
- Locations
- More information