East Melbourne Terrace reconfiguration
Construction 2020
A 4-level residence re-built behind the retained existing façade and boundary walls, incorporating a new vertical circulation spine of crafted timber stair and lift servicing the multiple levels within the house.
The clients’ top priority for an interior full of daylight was achieved by providing large glazed roofing areas symmetrically positioned around the vertical circulation spine. Automated shading devices protect the skylight glass from summer sun.
Glazing to stacked timber framed landings beneath one of the skylights allows daylight to penetrate to the lower floor without loss of floor area.
A second skylight opening over the circulation area adds spatial drama upon entering the house.
The design was generated with split levels to address the 3 metre ground fall along the property from the street frontage to the rear lane frontage. Zoned areas of the residence are stepped down the site to suit the site fall.
The split-level design of the living area also allows for borrowed daylight and long views from the basement gym.
An elevated courtyard off the living room provides a direct and natural relationship between the residence and the outdoor living area.
The diminishing rear elevation of the residence to the elevated bluestone paved courtyard spanning between the residence and a rear loft/garage allows increased penetration of afternoon sunlight.
The separate rear loft/garage building has frontage to a rear lane.