Two duplex townhouses were proposed to replace an existing weatherboard house in a quiet, leafy suburban street in Camberwell. The brief asked for low-maintenance, energy efficient units with a point of difference and uniqueness. Having spent time in Japan, the owner’s appreciation for Japanese culture and architecture were strong drivers for the design aesthetic.
Some of the challenges we faced involved scale – to create generous four bedroom units with multiple bathrooms and living areas that would work in harmony with the surrounding environment and meet strict Council requirements. Introducing abundant natural light and ventilation for the south facing unit and maintaining a continuous ground floor level for wheelchair access were also key considerations.
We addressed some of the requirements through solar orientation and sensitive design, large skillion roofs with vast overhangs help break-down and express forms and provide shelter from the elements; chain downpipes create a point of interest upon arrival and heighten one’s aural and sensory experience on rainy days. Glass skylights are scattered throughout bathroom and living areas to capture natural light and create a strong connection with the outdoors in all rooms. Skylights located over bathtubs allow one to relax and ponder while gazing out at the clouds above.
Traditional samurai armour provided inspiration for the design aesthetic of the materials palette, which was kept simple and consists of layers of more refined finishes such as rhinezinc, terracotta and timber cladding to highlight building forms. ‘Terreal’ cladding acts as a breathable wall to increase thermal performance. Green roofs were originally proposed for first floor roof decks to increase insulation, rainwater retention and create secondary “backyards” for upper living areas, but reluctantly didn’t come to fruition. High-level clerestory windows with operable louvres allow for cross-flow ventilation that creates a ‘venturi effect’ to extract heat in summer. Solar hot water and hydronic heating also help improve the energy efficiency.