Project: One Plus One House
Architects: Refresh*Design
Builder: Toscano Constructions
Design Team: Erhard Rathmayr, Corinne Trang, Monika Obrist
Location: Paddington, Australia
Year: 2020
Photographs: Andy Macpherson, Alanna Jayne McTiernan
Text by Refresh*Design
Set amongst a background of vernacular detached houses on a traditional narrow 7.5-meter wide inner-city Brisbane lot the additions and alterations at the Paddington Cottage. Renovation comprises of a simple and clear geometric reference to the turn of the century houses in the area in the form of a small yet well detailed and crafted extension to a high-set timber cottage with the aim of providing more living space and a greater connection to the north-facing backyard and mature tree for a young family.
Two architectural gestures underpin the narrative of this modest kitchen living and bedroom extension. The first captures the formal qualities of the dwelling. The geometry of the addition is a direct mirror of the existing cottage’s proportions however, re-interpreted as a rigorously geometric composition wrapped in compressed fibre cement sheeting and cover battens.
A series of strategic openings in the form of solid casement and large retractable doors windows address both overlooking concerns from adjacent neighbours and create a seamless indoor/outdoor relationship.
The second is an idea of detaching the new volume from the existing, integrating a central courtyard and circulation space that connects the split-level plan between new and old. Clad in a light-weight polycarbonate sheeting with timber battens.
The previously dark core of the cottage now allows both volumes direct access to natural light and cross ventilation whilst further enhancing the connection to a landscaped courtyard, setback areas and along with it a sense of advancement to the local vernacular.
“The living area is just perfect – it brings us together & grounds us every day. The spaces seem so spacious with separation but closeness – very clever in design & function. We have never felt closer as a family. I love the little nooks & cranies (courtyards) & we enjoy playing with what we will do with them in the future. The connection to the backyard has been awesome – Flinders love the space & now uses it daily – I enjoy the study of the great Australian lawn and what will be out the back.” says the owner about One Plus One House
