Rosebud Project

CLICK ON IMAGES TO SEE LARGER. Who would have thought!

From day one this project was set to be a challenge requiring careful planning and strategic layout consideration. The original site underwent a major transformation, from a scrappy old boat-shed, to a spectacular icon of good design. There were countless limitations throughout this unique and exciting project, from town planning on the tiny site, to the distinctive slope and overlooking viewpoints.

The renovation unleashed a commanding presence. This was a delicate challenge with a building envelope of only six by eight metres. Despite the drastic space limitations, respect toward:
- distinctive and eclectic material combination and placement,
- economising space and efficient circulation paths,
- deep articulation on the bulk, both in massing and natural light management,
- and rationalising three dimensional space management,
enabled an almost unbelievable 3 bedroom residence in the space that was previously used as a boat-shed. Without a doubt an award worthy renovation.

The design conclusion exceeded all expectations of; the clients, the town planners, the limited budget and even ourselves. This project became a turning point in the expectations of our design firm, economy of space breaches prior attainable levels of area management in several area's. Firstly, by utilising circulation paths as multi-use area's we exponentially expanded possibilities.

For example, ingeniously combining the entry and the stair landing negates the common small house problem of entering directly into the living area. This option didn't diminish available floor area, opens up the volume of the living area, and minimises the height difference between floor levels without decreasing ceiling height. To add to its benefits, opening the door creates an alfresco feel to both the ground and first floor, as well as becoming a part of a natural and adjustable xyz cross-ventilation system throughout the house, effectively increasing the energy efficiency of this building and achieving a higher level of comfortable living.

The property required thinking with a beach side instinct, with open spaces, a celebratory ambience, and although privacy in this built up area is important, we wanted the occupants to become immersed in the beach side surrounds.

Breaking the crossover point between indoor and outdoor space through good design, enabled an extended version of 'open plan living', where the open plan kitchen, dining and living area's all share their openness with the first floor deck area. The deck is perfect for a summers day barbecue by the beach with a servery from the kitchen, north light, and views to the water. The deck became an important feature in the design where the deck:
-provides privacy, with a view-line voiding the need for blinds or curtains,
-provides deep articulation, aiding the commanding presence of this building
-shades the main living area from harsh westerly sun
-becomes part of the adjustable xyz airflow system without sacrificing privacy

Working closely with tradesman, finishing touches were a highlight on this project, details like separating the featured angle wall with expressed joints accentuated the texture and colour of the panels, selecting timber for internal and external finishes, ensuring visual balance with installation methods and designing custom flashing details were the crux of budget conscious good design.

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