House C3 continues Campbell Architecture's exploration of traditional form used in a contemporary manner. In this case, to find an architecture of today that sits comfortably within its neighbourhood of 19th century workers' cottages. House C3 neither brashly shouts difference nor resorts to historical pastiche…
The Brief
The brief was to create a house infused with natural light throughout. Of course this is not easy when dealing with the often dark row house typology. The clients also wanted to avoid resorting to the often sad, dank, internal courts or light wells.
Passive Design
Outside the house is timber clad, using concrete floor and wall elements to create thermal mass. Along with consciously designed passive ventilation routes, the house achieves stable (and comfortable) internal environmental conditions throughout the year.
Reinterpreting the Dormer
The traditional dormer is interpreted as a contemporary box form to improve its functionality and softened with traditional natural shiplap cladding. The insertion of traditional shutters are super functional in moderating light and privacy, while also playfully balancing the traditional/contemporary elements.
Overlooking the Backyard
At the rear, facing the sun and garden, the same form is stretched to welcome in the light, the view and create a large window seat in the main bedroom.
Neutral Palette = Maximum Flexibility
The neutral palette of internal and external materials aims to exude a sense of quiet calm, to be a backdrop for living in various ways and various styles, encouraging the occupants to show and even change their style throughout the long life of the building.
Oval Skylight
An oval skylight through the very centre of the house introduces an element of rococo surprise to balance the otherwise rectilinear plan. While a simple white form, the play of light and shadow across the oval changes throughout the day and night animating all spaces of the house.
Hidden Stair
The stair to the second floor is hidden from view rising from a timber seating and storage plinth in the family living space to a second floor internal balcony above, which creates a study area both open and private adjacent to the bedrooms.
Planning
The plan is designed to be flexible to accommodate changing needs of the occupants. The kitchen forms the centre of the multiple living spaces, in the centre of the commodious family living area which leads out to the garden. Towards the street is a space with lower ceiling and timber floor used as a more intimate sitting room.
