Mount Waverley
SITE CONTEXT:
The site is located on a bend in Waimarie Drive with a wide frontage to the north and equally wide rear boundary to the south, bordering the reserve. The site area exceeds 1400 square metres and has a moderate slope from the northern boundary to the south. The site also had extensive existing vegetation, which needed Planning Approval for removal, as the condition of most plants had deteriorated over time, as had the existing dwelling.
DESIGN RESPONSE:
Very early in the design process it became obvious to stretch the building across the site width to take advantage of the northern solar advantages, whilst presenting a wide facade to the reserve. This presented challenges to protect from the northern summer sun and having outdoor entertaining areas accommodating sun and views.
Flat roofs with wide overhangs and deep angled timber fascias were incorporated in layered effects, which adds to featuring the limestone and rock wall claddings, whilst maintaining sun control. The towering rock front porch invites visitors into the expansive entry with views past a featured stairway and through the house out into the reserve.
Not wanting to upset the clean lines of the roof, but still requiring solar panels, extensive research was carried out to source solar panel that lay flat on the roofing, making them concealed from view whilst powering batteries housed with the garage area.
The use of natural materials is extensive throughout the home with limestone cladding, rock externally and internally, timber floors and walls, plus stone in wet areas. Alongside the entry colonnade and accessed from the living areas, there is a screened northern terrace, with the featured screening duplicated on the garage façade to soften its appearance.
Great street appeal