The site of Foxground House held huge sentimental value for Nettleton Architects' client. It's the area where his late wife's ashes were scattered. For the elderly WWII veteran, this was the place he wanted to build a simple, low-maintenance home for himself - with room for his family to visit. Unfortunately it wasn't all smooth sailing, the application to subdivide the land needed to go all the way to Land and Environment Court, but this war veteran's resolve and determination allowed him and architect Louise Netteleton to realise his dream...
"[My client] showed the same tenacity fighting council through the Land and Environment Court to approve his subdivision that he had shown on the Kokoda Trail all those years ago." - Louise Netteleton
The plan is a relatively simple L-shape which wraps around a North-facing grass area. One side of the L-shape is for sleeping, the other is for living. The two wings are designed to encourage cross-ventilation in summer, and seperate for more efficient heating in winter.
The sleeping wing has sliding ZINCALUME® panels which can be closed for security and to blockout the sun. Clerestory windows in the bedroom take in views of a slope behind the home. The clerestories include sections of louvres to maximise natural ventilation.
The bedroom and living wings are on the same level for accessibility, with the living area cantilevering dramatically over the garage below. While this single-level living was essential for the war-wounded client, it also means the living area feels as if it's amongst the treetops with views over the valley.
Given the personal importance of this site, Nettleton Architects have crafted a humble, but thoughtful home that will be the perfect place for the owner to enjoy the company of his family and the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.