Strowan House
By MC Architecture Studio
Situated within a residential urban area, the Strowan house responds to the characteristics of the neighbourhood with a contemporary approach. The long rectangular site influenced a single story shape that is articulated to effectively work with the space and the environment.
The hierarchy of roof heights and variety of angles subtly creates an engaging dynamic of volumes when viewed from the street. The gable roof builds on the traditional house to develop a slight manipulated shape that is angled to give movement and intrigue while drawing sun into the interior. The steep roof leads down and becomes the entrance to the house. The wall is angled to replicate the roof and creates a courtyard area.
The glazed slider doors open out give a link between the living spaces to the outdoor spaces. The outdoor areas are positioned to provide privacy, to utilize the morning and afternoon sun and create an interior and exterior flow throughout the house. The plaster render in contrast with the cedar cladding breaks up the house and gives warmth to these outdoor areas.
As you enter into the house the kitchen island is the first point of interest .It is a sculptured art piece that becomes the heart of the house, inviting guests to gather around to prepare, eat, and relax. The high angle ceiling creates an open space with triangular windows that provides natural daylight to the kitchen area. The kitchen, dining and living is one open space that is defined by the varied ceiling heights.
The end of the house becomes the private domain with two bedrooms, bathroom and a large master bedroom with an ensuite. The master bedroom opens out to the outdoor deck space.
The house structure allows for a airtight and thermally tight shell that creates a warm and energy efficient living environement.
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Strowan House
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About the
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MC Architecture Studio (MCAS) works from an uncompromising commitment to innovative, distinctive design and outstanding client service. Each project is unique and is tailored to the specific challenges of the physical site and the precise functionality required by the client. Sensitivity to the wider potential of design is key to the studio process, incorporating awareness of innovative materials and practices as well as aligning with all sustainable features and methods possible within the context of each project. MCAS works closely and consistently in partnership with clients and consultants, responding to needs and maintaining a global outlook that nurtures industry leadership.
Max was exposed to the foundations of design from an early age and worked at his father’s practice in his native Rome. He completed a Masters in architecture and later established his own practice also in Rome. In 2007 he moved to New Zealand and worked with Athfield Architects before establishing MC Architecture Studio ltd.
Collaboration is a consistent feature of the studio and Max is committed to developing local and international networks to cross-pollinate ideas and maintain his connection and currency with best practice and new conceptual thinking. He strongly believes that interaction develops professionalism and human potential.
Although strongly influenced by European standards, processes and aesthetics, Max takes inspiration from many sources. He has travelled extensively and completed his master’s thesis in India where he explored low cost housing. Inspiration comes also from sports and the natural environment - the ocean and the mountains particularly – as well as music and arts.
Max is passionate about built environments that attract and inspire- whether as a public civic building, a retail space or that most personal of buildings – one’s own home.
- Year founded2009
- ArchiPro Member since2015
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