House on the Hill
House on the Hill, Jan Juc (in-progress)
We are currently in the construction phase of this new residential project, on a moderately sloping site. A family house to enjoy life and raise children by the sea. The site adjoins parkland to the South with an ephemeral stream flowing through in times of heavy rainfall. Large trees and dense native shrubs abut this interface and provide privacy for the residents. A path to access the community landscape runs down the West boundary, with neighbours to the East hard pressed, although screened by existing planting. From the streetscape the existing dwelling does not block the view to the tall gums within the parkland beyond, which we sought to maintain.
The existing two-storey home was stepped down the site and oriented to the East, running down the length of the block. We elected to adopt a similar approach to enable us to build over the previously disturbed ground, with the dwelling set significantly off the boundary to capture the morning sun. The new dwelling bends at its midpoint to enable the main living wing to orient more to the North, while creating an increasing gap to the West boundary. This shifts this zone away from the adjoining owner and allows for an afternoon sundeck to fit, shaped around the canopies of two existing deciduous trees.
The two-storey building is split at the central entry to fit into the natural slope of the site. The ground level includes a Garage, Storage and Entry, stepping down to 2 Bedrooms, Study opening to Rumpus, Powder, Bathroom and Laundry. The upper level includes an open plan Living and Lounge, Dining, Kitchen, Walk in Pantry and Powder. A further flight of stairs enables access to the Office and Master Bedroom wing, including a private screened North facing Deck, Walk in Robe and Ensuite. Extensive decking is provided to enable entertaining and encourage interaction with the surrounding natural environment.
The roof form lifts to the East to ensure the open plan living zones are light filled. Deep eaves will provide protection from the stormy weather to the large glazed sliding doors allowing access to all external decks. They will also offer suitable sun protection. The Kitchen design is practical and functional, with plenty of bench space and storage options. The Study will accommodate a minimum of two workstations at the desk, as the owners have the ability to work from home.
The external materials include compressed sheet and hardwood timber cladding, with blockwork retaining walls set into and retaining the natural slope, and as the fireplace massing. The materials are earthy and dark, ideally chosen to weather well over time to better blend with the coastal native bushland.
