Designed by Chris Elliott Architects, Palm Tree House was a project for a young family.
It consisted of the replacement of the ground floor living areas and kitchen with a large single space reconfigured to suit their casual lifestyle.
The family enjoys entertaining and has a rather large extended family.
So the house is always full of laughter and fun.
The clients, both keen surfers, with two children and a dog, asked for new living spaces and a new upper level with two more bedrooms.
However, they also expressed a desire for one large space at the upper level that could be used as a parent’s bedroom/retreat or could be divided into separate areas to accommodate different situations.
The additions were carefully designed to fit behind the existing ridgeline to reduce the impact on the streetscape.
A staircase winds around and up through the old entry area, inserted under the existing roof.
It leads to a large addition at the upper level.
At the top of the stairs is a large multi-function room that could operate as a very large bedroom or as a bedroom and separate family room.
This division was achieved using sliding screens with coloured and translucent glass.
Another bedroom was built into the existing roof area at the front of the house with a simple glazed dormer window providing light and outlook.
Generous storage spaces and a small bathroom with a skylight complete the upper level.
The facades are adorned with horizontal cedar louvre blades held together with natural brass components.
These elements were carefully designed and spaced to ensure that the potential for overlooking the neighbouring property to the east was eliminated.
Project Details
Project Size – 154 m2
Site Area – 272 m2
Completion Date – 2016
Building Levels – 2
Project Team
Architecture
Chris Elliott Architects
Sydney-based Chris Elliott Architects, established in 1992, are committed to the opportunities provided by new technologies whilst being respectful of the natural and heritage qualities of place.
www.chriselliottarchitects.com
Construction
Michael Downing Constructions
Michael Downing Constructions is a family building company that specializes in all types of home renovations and additions.
www.mdowningconstructions.com.au
Photography
Richard Glover
Richard Glover is an Australian architectural photographer with over 25 years’ experience. His international reputation relies not only on longevity in a specialist area, but also on producing striking and technically assured images of some of the world’s best new buildings.
Photo Gallery
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Design © 2021 Chris Elliott Architects. All Rights Reserved.| Images © 2021 Richard Glover. All Rights Reserved.
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