Hunter Residence By Glasshouse Projects
The architectural team added over 160sqm of functional living space that maximised the site’s offering without sacrificing the outdoor area of the corner block.
Hunter Residence by Glasshouse Projects
Don Iannicelli, the founder of Glasshouse Projects, explains the design needed to be sympathetic to the fact that the existing home was a charming character Queen Anne villa situated in a historic conversation zone on a prominent corner. “Given its corner orientation, the secondary frontage was important, as such we designed a grounded low profile form, with strong horizontal elements. Whilst still a contemporary form, the classic materials and neutral colour palette, ensured sensitivity to the character of the original home.”
Being a corner block, the clients were fortunate to have a generous outdoor space which they wanted to retain as much as possible. “The living room opens effortlessly to a sun-filled northern alfresco area via a series of stacking sliding glass panels, which, when fully opened, disappear into the wall cavity, giving the impression of a seamless space”, says Don. As such, the established garden remains a valued feature of the property.
The design of Hunter Residence addition was deliberately horizontal to maintain its connection to the existing home’s character. The low form also provided much-needed privacy from the busy corner and positively interacted with the streetscape, which was especially important being the historic conservation zone location.
An exception to the low, horizontal profile is the solid vertical element of the Apollo Random Ashlar clad fireplace which breaks the visual language.
“We needed a material that would match this statement texturally, and the Apollo stone was a fitting choice,” says Don. “It complemented the grey tones chosen for the floor tile and the off-form concrete used for the benching, but more importantly, we loved the random ashlar format which when coupled with a mid-grey mortar, gave the feature a strong textured pattern.”
With the new extension, the Hunter Residence has become a very functional family home and the connected alfresco area ensures the private outdoor space is utilised all year round. Additionally, Glasshouse has been able to create a more contemporary feel in the extension through the use of moody and cooler tones, which competing with the original architecture.
Walk past Hunter Residence and there is a sense of intrigue. Step inside and you’ll be welcomed with generosity, light and a feeling of being home.
Architect and Builder: Glasshouse Projects.
