Project: Wordsmith / Brick Bungalow Re-design
Architects: Windust Architects x Interiors
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Photo Credits: Richard Wong
From the architects: Wordsmith has changed this family home for good. It sees a small 1930’s brick bungalow emerge into a verbally active family environment, with spaces to write and store books. With one parent working from home and 2 active young boys, it was clear from the beginning that this family wanted to significantly improve the way they spent their days at home.
An interest in writing, reading, slow food and barbeques, provided the key ideas for this house addition and alteration. Our client also required spaces that were flexible, and materials that were robust. And they wanted to do this without having to resort to “open plan” living. The design allowed circulation to transition smoothly between private bedroom and family areas, arriving at the kitchen, the family’s heart.
We extended the line of the existing gabled roof to avoid “cost heavy” box gutters and roof details. Raked ceilings provide drama, cross ventilation and eventually, the desired separation of new dining and living spaces: a “not so open plan”.
A “blackboard” wall is made at the intersection of old and new, providing the space for active words. Opposite in the living areas, are the “library” walls providing space for stored words; books. To the north is the outdoor entertainment area, flanked by brick walls to allow space for the 5 barbeques.
To reduce risk and achieve the desired outcome, we actively managed the budget and costs via material selection, straight forward design details, and using a negotiated tender with a trusted builder throughout design development and contract documentation.
To the existing east/west orientated site, a northern aspect is introduced into the new sections of building. With the raked ceilings and highlight windows, the new spaces achieve abundant natural light and cross ventilation. The external entertaining area, with its open sky awning, allows for sun protection and all year usage.
