It addresses topical issues of housing affordability, increasing density, ageing in place and sustainability, both environmentally and through maintenance and strengthening of established communities. 

The original property hasn’t been sub-divided, but is designed for that to happen, with a 120m2 site for the new house, fronting onto a side street, adjacent to a rear lane. The family’s history living in this community prompted a form that is respectful of the established streetscape albeit with a contemporary interpretation. The sons background in fine arts steered us towards a clean and abstracted architectural language.

The new house fronts onto the side street, abutting the rear lane. A compact 61m2 footprint, comprising 116m2over two stories, provides two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a study/second living space in addition to the main living/meals/kitchen. The challenge was making small spaces feel bigger than their modest size. The main living is only3.6m x 7.9m, but borrows space and light from the courtyard with full-height, full-width, sliding doors. Cabinetry is raised off the floor, including the island bench, increasing the illusion of space. 

The continuous brick wall unites internal and external spaces while providing security and acoustic isolation from the lane. A highlight window over, runs the length of the building, bringing in north light for passive solar gain without compromising privacy. 

Quiet, tranquil materials throughout reflect the owners calm and considered sensibilities. Recycled bricks are bagged and painted white to be tactile but serene while providing thermal mass. A waterproof cementitious wall finish in the bathrooms and kitchen splashback is visually soft and peaceful, enhancing natural light without glare. Timber benchtops, cabinetry, floors and windows provide warmth while reinforcing connection with nature. Externally, timber cladding and fencing reflects the existing significant tree and add warmth to its urban context.