NORWOOD
This home was in fairly original condition with the exception of a small pre-existing flat roof extension to the rear. It was deemed to be structurally sound with only minor superficial cracking as per the era.
The design brief revolved around flexibility of floorplan and low maintenance/technology based living. Whilst the immediate plan was focused towards a professional couple, “future proofing” the finished design to cater for children and a broader future “buying pool” was crucial.
The main driver to the design concept was to increase workable open living space with increased natural light egress whilst providing better Northern orientation. This has been achieved by fully justifying the rear skillion roof extension to the Southern boundary. Upper eaves and lower canopy modelling allows maximum winter sun to penetrate the polished rear slab allowing it to act as a heat sink. Conversely the eaves and timber fins reduce the impact of higher summer sun by shading the glazing. High louvre windows allow any build up of summer heat to escape and enhance the breeze corridor through the dwelling. The ability to live inside and out is made easy through large format opening doors, onto the outdoor entertaining area and pool.
We have endeavoured through the process to provide a balance between retaining many of the older heritage features inside and out, whilst integrating the latest technology available to us. These areas include heated flooring in ENS, home automation/security throughout via touch screen, original doors, ceiling roses, arch/frames and by refurbishing and staining the original Baltic Pine floor. The house sits comfortably on the street with other period homes… but takes on a sleek modern open plan feel to the rear… best of both worlds. Whilst the rear extension is new construction in every respect, the recycled “old red brick” feature wall is reference to the past.