CLIFTON HILL COURTYARD HOUSE Future flexibility
This brick and glass extension fits snugly onto the back of a doublefronted weatherboard worker ’ s cottage in Clifton Hill . Designed to capture light from the north , as well as views of an existing bottle brush tree to the south , the layout responds to both the site and the family ’ s desire for future flexibility . With laneway access at the rear , a double-storey garden studio nestles into the back of the site , providing a green backdrop to views from the calm spaces within .
Sustainability Features - Retention of the existing building .
• Passive solar design techniques for improved living conditions and building performance .
• Super-insulated walls and ceiling cavities .
• Double-glazed high-performance windows .
• Thermal mass .
• Solar panels on the roof .
The brief was to re-model the existing ( circa the 1890s ) home to accommodate a master suite with ensuite and walk-in robe , plus 2 further kids ’ bedrooms , a central bathroom , and laundry . The clients then wanted to create a light-filled open-plan living extension that would replace a dated and poorly planned 1980s addition , as well as a garden studio . The new family home would need to cater to twin toddlers , and a teenager , as well as guests visiting from overseas . A garden studio was therefore suggested to accommodate this flexibility as well as help to shield views from a neighbouring development .
Being on a long and narrow southfacing allotment , the key challenge was how to get daylight and sunlight into the back of the house , as well as fitting in all the functional requirements of the brief . The other key challenge was to design a home that could cater to all age groups both now and into the future .
Despite courtyards taking up space within the center of a floor plan , the clients embraced the concept , knowing the benefits would outweigh the loss of backyard space . Not only does the courtyard bring northern sunlight into the plan , but it also creates relief at
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