T2 proposed external rear view

T1 rear perspective

Archicentre provided a flexible brief with emphasis on six key areas:
* site maximisation
* design alternatives
* interesting materials
* energy-saving techniques
* sustainability
* economy

Due to the building being in a heritage overlay, the architects had to maintain the structure and appearance of the existing building (street view) to the existing ridge line so as to ensure that any new development would not be visible from the street.

T2 proposed plans

T1 proposed plans

The architect initially designed a three storey structure including a roof terrace beyond the ridge line to capture city views south and to the north for good daylight exposure. As the first floor area would be less affected by overshadowing from the neighbouring buildings, it was decided to locate the living spaces at this level and the bedrooms on the less sunny ground floor. The architect designed a light shaft located on the western boundary to allow daylight to penetrate the ground floor bathroom, laundry and study. The ground floor bedrooms have windows to the north and south with the kitchen and meals area enjoying supplemental daylight through skylights and a boundary light shaft.

It was quite a significant achievement creating a two-bedroom, plus study or third bedroom, Town House given the limited size of the block, but this brief will allow maximum flexibility for any future owner or tenant, increasing the properties' market potential.

The architect set about exploring the design options and establishing the envelope within which the building will fit. This process, the architect said, is a little like stretching a balloon in many different directions at the same time. The design had to represent "good value for money" whilst still being attractive to a wide sector of potential purchasers upon completion.

The main criteria the Architect considered were:
* Less bulk on the east side near the single storey neighbour's rear lean-to.
* A light well in the centre for natural light and maximum cross ventilation.
* Retain the front room with the chimney.
* New rooms to be simple shapes in light colours so as to appear as large as possible.
* Exploit the north facing aspect to the rear.
* Passive solar design principles to be utilised wherever possible.
* ESD principles to be incorporated.
* Water features in the rear garden and light well.
* Interesting lighting.
* Textural and illustrative "reminiscent" features based on local history and found objects.

The Architect submitted his plans at a pre-application meeting with the Planning officer who obtained comments from the Heritage Adviser. The Planning officer was very reasonable and understanding and the parameters and restrictions were established at an early stage. The Architect met with the Carlton Residents Association to explain all the positives about the project. The Architect also met with the neighbours to discuss their concerns, primarily about having a tall wall next to their boundary, so he took this into consideration.

The Sketch Design was completed and presented to Archicentre together with some indicative building costs.

Getting a Sketch Design Fact Sheet

T2 ventilation section

T1 sketched section sustainability