Project M
Since it was originally built in the 1950’s, this family home had been altered in an ad-hoc way. The time had come for it to be stripped back to basics, raised and built-in to suit today’s modern lifestyle and the family’s needs.
Studio 15B was able to re-orientate the spaces to best suit the northern rear aspect — creating the distinct sculptural M roof form in the process.
The full extent of the alterations and additions to this light filled home are not seen until you step over the threshold. The experience starts with the glazed entry pod to the side of the home that allows a transparent connection to the rear garden. The downstairs area houses a new double garage and laundry, but is predominately for when the grandparents come to stay with bedrooms, a small living space and kitchenette. The lower level of the home has been spilt by 600mm to better work in with the existing contours providing a 3m high ceiling to the lower living spaces and bedroom.
The new timber batten stair connects internally to the upper level which has the main kitchen, living spaces, bedrooms, bathrooms and study. The existing upper ceiling over the new open planned living spaces has been removed to expose the existing roof structure, allowing a double raked clerestory that extends inside to out. This design decision has driven the striking external rear elevation, which takes advantage of northern light and valley views. The stacked outdoor decks provide the owners with ample outdoor living space to enjoy.
Externally, the existing weatherboards have been complimented with modern lightweight materials and a nod to the previous family additions with elements of face brickwork. The final result inside and out is a light fresh feel that will serve the current family well into the future.
"I have had the opportunity to work with Allison on a residential project in New Farm recently, I trusted her with the full design development from concept through to construction documentation. Allison’s analysis and understanding of the design brief allowed her to present a functional yet remarkable design that included numerous opportunities to add value to the project. I found Allison’s skills to be rivalled only by her professional expertise."
