This site is a Special Rural site approximately 2 acres in size. The site has a pre-defined building envelope with a northern orientation. The entire site is heavily treed and located in a high fire risk location.The design concept was very much about delivering a simple building. This started with the concept of unadorned blade walls on the west end, without openings or embellishments just simple solid monolithic structures to protect the rooms beyond from sun, wind and fire. Rammed limestone was selected for these elements. This material ticked every box for this building - locally sourced, low toxic, a wonderful texture & natural colour and great thermal mass.Placing the same blade walls on the eastern end and running a simple mono pitched roof between the groups of blade walls concluded the external form of the building.Insulated framed walls, cement rendered walls and more internal rammed earth walls are used to build up a high level of thermal mass and a balance of texture.Concrete and timber floors, local timber on cabinets and high spec double glazed doors and windows delivered the basic elements of performance and the material pallet.The northern terrace has a polycarbonate roof over a timber lined ceiling. The battens are spaced to allow sun and light through in winter but reduce sun penetration in summer. The room arrangements set out are set out around an open plan living room with a small TV/ activity room adjacent. Large internal sliding doors close or open this space as required depending on the use of the overall space. This room arrangement allows fantastic cross ventilation and zoning. The design solution for this project has implemented a range of elements that reduce energy use and contribute to a more sustainable and healthy product: site orientation, high thermal mass, locally sourced materials, heavily insulated walls and ceiling, double glazing, low toxic sealers and paints and low energy use appliances.
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