It is a project of a small, inter-war semi-detached house designed by Jost Architects. Despite the local council’s Heritage B grading, this house has very few significant features or attributes. It makes challenges to achieving the client’s enthusiastic brief. The plan for Malvern House is traditional with clean and careful detail.
Planning
The planning restraints mean that the client’s brief has to be slightly condensed and adapted and the option of a two-level rear extension is not achievable. The brief still attains the functional necessities they need including a dining area, a spacious open plan, kitchen with a walk-in pantry, separate laundry, bathroom, office, second bedroom, and master bedroom with an ensuite and walk-in robe.
The View
The 1980’s addition and alteration that undertaken many years ago are removed. The new 2015 version is introduced. The view of the back garden is very imperative to the client’s brief. The unimpeded view can be achieved with a higher than usual ceiling and double stacking and glazed steel framed sliding doors. A peaceful point of interest to the kitchen area is provided by the internal courtyard which is also enabling the cross ventilation to a room.
Design
The beginning and entry of the dwelling new area is unassuming and satisfying the heritage requirements even though being recessed from the front facade, they can define the entrance location with a new dark burnt ash timber wall. It contrasts the existing white cement bagged brickwork finish continuation to the front facade of the building.
The traditional plan is supported by the rooms accessible from a central corridor, leading into the living area and the rear dining area where the building ceiling rakes up the substantial height. It can create an impressive space in a modestly sized area with highlight windows that provide controlled northern sunlight. There also double stacking, full-height doors that connect the space to the spotted gum deck and dense.
Materials
The interior finishes show the individual textures of the materials employed while the detail is clean and careful. This detail is controlled to sit within the budget. The detail is important to the clients and one of the clients is very precise and thorough in reviewing and understanding every aspect of this project.
Long-lasting and durable materials are sustainable applications, including the double glazed steel windows and sliding doors, the use of zoned hydronic heating, thermally modified timber cladding, and engineered timber flooring. The co-ordination of architectural design and structure favoring timber but in terms of sustainability, the sensible application of good thermally passive design can provide the clients with a comfortable living.
Malvern House Gallery
Photographer: Fraser Marsden