By LTD Architectural Design Studio
Designed for a a family returning from Northern Australia unusually seeking to escape the baking sun, this house has been designed with notions of privacy and protection in mind. The brief called for a focus on materiality - using off-form concrete and cedar alongside natural aluminium and pre-painted corrugate, each element has been carefully selected and detailed to complement and enhance the other. The challenge on this roadside south facing site was to provide a good quality of light throughout the house, while maintaining privacy and minimising direct sun. This has been achieved via carefully placed skylights and large opening doors and windows on the southern (view) side to provide high levels of ambient light. As always, simplicity of form was a priority - the long gable pavilion and understated exterior palette contrast well with the owner's eclectic tastes and selections for the interior. Despite being located on a stunning site, the original house was in bad shape. However it was decided to work within it's basic parameters to ensure the new design stayed within a suitable bulk and scale for the streetscape. It's hoped the house has an Aussie flavour, with a Kiwi twist.
There is something satisfying about a thing that is well made and well designed. We set out in 2008 looking to raise the standard of design in our local built environment. Since then we have worked in some incredible locations to create buildings that reflect the character of the people who live in them and place in which they live. We design with sensitivity to the physical and cultural context of the site, using natural materials and finishes where possible with a focus on robust and elegant detailing. We have a tight knit team of skilled architectural designers and technicians to handle new residential and commercial projects, alterations and additions of any complexity.