Douglas is a play full alteration and addition that transforms an existing classic semi into a modern living sanctuary for a young family of four in Clovelly.

Convex curved ceilings provide access to northern light and sweeping views to a central roof garden and beyond. The ceilings act to define the various functions of the house providing a balance of privacy and connection between the spaces.

“The concept, a simple sectional diagram, creates uplifting spaces and a feeling of openness throughout the home.”

As a solution to the solar issues relating to the south facing block we developed the idea of a high level (ceiling) circulation space to allow for light and air to penetrate the spaces.

We opted for a single storey alteration and addition, fitting the client’s requirement to prioritise spatial quality with efficient panning instead of just trying to maximise the overall size of the dwelling. The primary emphasis was placed on the living wing, designed as a vibrant space for the family to live and entertain. The bedrooms and bathrooms are therefore kept to minimal size and efficiently designed with built in joinery.

This simple sectional diagram creates uplifting spaces and a feeling of openness throughout the addition.

In addition to passive benefits this diagram presents, the convex ceiling assists to define the various spaces/function of the dwelling. In the living wing the two main functions; kitchen/dining and living are divided at the centre of the convex ceiling. A joinery unit is placed between the two spaces, its curved top falls just short of the ceiling. While providing some privacy between the spaces the visual effect of the ceiling running over creates a sense of connection to the other space and context beyond.

A small narrow courtyard is positioned along the party wall side of the living space, giving the internal living area an increased sense of width along with a physical connection to the landscape. Externally, the material palette is simple with weathered timber cladding and render.

The site is landscaped with drought tolerant vegetation. An overhang at the rear provides an undercover entertainment area that looks out onto a small pool for cooling off in the summer. In addition to layout efficiency, passive heating and cooling and lighting quality, other sustainable building measures such as provision for large solar system with electric appliances provisioning and rainwater harvesting are also taken.

Externally, the material palette is simple with weathered timber cladding and render. Along each façade a horizontal datum creates a divide of the materials which relates to the conceptual diagram, existing dwelling, and context.