38 Narla Rd, Swanbourne

Overview

This was a residential new build project for a private client.   Split level suspended reinforced concrete slabs on masonry walls with a timber construction for the upper level.

The clients, a young, growing family, were equally concerned about maximizing useful internal space, but also having enough productive, safe outdoor space for their young children. Visual connection across internal and external spaces was therefore a strong necessity, giving the parents the ability to comfortably supervise the family from a variety of locations. Flexibility was also required for a house which can grow and change in line with the changing family occupying it.

Key Structural Design Features

The material palette gives visual legibility to the complex spatial relationships within. Black painted timber, concrete block and white rendered boxes contrast and complement one another, defining the differing ‘connecting and protecting’ roles of the building elements. The solid stone and concrete base services and supports the house with a strong connection to the ground plane, while the lightweight upper structure above gives the home the flexibility to grow and change with the family. White rendered boxes look outward, visually connecting the home to the surrounding green spaces of garden and parkland, while the black timber box speaks directly to the sun and the horizon, affording privacy whilst allowing natural light and ventilation into the home.