Project: Passive Extension / Magnolia Soul
Architects: Green Sheep Collective
Builders: Excelsior Master Builders
Location: Fairfield, Victoria, Australia
Project Year 2017
Photographer: Emma Cross
This passive extension and renovation creates a warm, robust, family and pet friendly space, while protecting a mature Magnolia x soulangeana tree and maximising garden area. The project was completed in 2017 by Green Sheep Collective
Views of the magnolia tree are intentionally framed by the roof structure, through a high angled window and bay window seat. The generous and versatile window seat creates a lovely place to relax, read a book, admire the flowering magnolia or sit on the edge of the garden.
High angular ceilings offer views of the magnolia, allow dappled light to penetrate deep into the residence and provide ‘stack effect’ ventilation. A sunken living space takes advantage of the existing raised floor level by creating a playful step to the garden that doubles as informal living and dining seating.
The building envelope and form are designed to accommodate a temperate climate. Unwanted summer heat gain is prevented by appropriately designed eaves, a batten screen, blinds, cross ventilation, a pergola with deciduous planting, and ‘stack effect’ cooling aided by ceiling fans.
The design carefully considers the spatial requirements of internal spaces to reduce built form and maximise garden area. A reduction in building form due to flexible programming and clever joinery results in fewer construction materials, less maintenance, reduced heating and cooling costs and a lower overall environmental footprint.
