Jun
Here at PlaceMate Architects, we are all about how architecture improves liveability. Some aspects of your home can be frustrating and disruptive to daily life. This could be the boxiness of your house or the small kitchen with no storage. So, whatever the problem, we want to help you.
How Architecture Improves Liveability: A Case Study
One such client had issues with liveability. The house was far from practical and needed a living area to suit the needs of the couple. Not only did we provide a fantastic design solution, but we also worked closely with the clients, who made a lot of decisions and suggestions. We were able to involve them as much as possible.
The large kitchen area and butler’s pantry beyond in the new addition.
Site Condition: How Architecture Improves Liveability
The client’s house in Woodend, Ipswich, is an 1860s cottage. Originally, the cottage held two small rooms but has been gradually extended over the years. The heart of this home, where the foyer is, is about 160 years old. Near to the Bremer River, this house’s north aspect overlooks a wonderful terrace garden. Across from the house sits a train yard, which the clients wanted to echo into the renovation.
The liveability of this home was not ideal. There was no common space big enough to feel at home and the tiny rooms just did not suit the homeowners’ needs. Although the environment in this house was situated in was gorgeous, there was little to no connection between the outside and the inside. Something that more and more people are craving. Therefore, the homeowners were after something to connect their house to the wonderful environment. They also required the renovation to be invisible from the street view.
Architectural Design Solution
Along with the suggestions and input from the clients themselves, PlaceMate Architects designed a back room fit with a kitchen, butler’s kitchen, living area, and deck. Although the process was long, the results were absolutely stunning.
We reflected on the railway workshop across the way through how the room was designed. The room was designed as a shed, showcasing steel and timber detailing. Walking through the area you will come to the deck, which is lived in as an outside room, and the panoramic view as you stand on the deck is filled with lush greenery, the Bremer River, and the opposite train yard.
An outdoor living area bordered by a creek and bushland.
Our design solution was all about the angles. The client involved himself in the process by making the steel for the rooftop windows. These windows at the peak of the roof can be opened by a pole with a hook on the end, also made by the client. So, the adjustable quality of the windows is prime in obtaining an optimal climate and lends its aesthetics to the industrial focus of train yards and boating clubs.
Our architects at PlaceMate Architects were joyous when we were invited over to the client’s house to admire the hours and days we had put into designing this building. As a result of our design, the liveability has greatly improved, and the extension still echoes the existing cottage. The openness of the space feels light and refreshing, and the airflow is perfect for any weather.
If you enjoyed this case study, check out the Mitchelton and Enoggera projects.
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