Design Brief
The client brief was very simple and concise - design an energy efficient 4 bedroom home for an active young family, within the budget of $700,000.
The home had to be part of the rural vernacular containing "strong elements", the colour red, louvres and, differing shapes.
A philosophical feature of the clients brief included that the home was to be designed without the influences of style, fashion, or ego. There was to be a direct response to contemporary country living.
Design Solution
The design focused on creating a private sanctuary for the clients and their 3, young adult children.
Inspired by the gentle rolling hills and the old gal shed in the distance, the residence responds to the sloping property, softly terracing down the hillside while making the most of the panoramic views of the city of Dubbo.
The sleeping areas have been kept to the east of the home to minimise the summer afternoon sun's impact, while all living spaces are oriented to the north.
The detached garage and western portal brace also offer the home respite from the punishing afternoon summer sun and dusty hot winds.
Material Considerations
The timber and steel framed house utilizes an honest palette of corrugated iron, weatherboard and, local ironbark.
The design captures the cooling summer breezes that rise from the valley in the northeast. Privacy blade walls then funnel the air along the lap pool to provide natural evaporative airconditioning to the interior spaces via the louvered breezeway and the veranda.
Double height reverse veneer walls have also been included to act as additional thermal mass.
Consultants & Contractors
Building Designer - Gavin Dale Designs
This article was written with the assistance of Building Designers Australia.
