+ Walpole Extension 2019/22
An addition and small extension to an existing home in Western Australia’s remote south west. The existing house, built around the early 2000s is a typical demountable transportable found in remote regions. Compact and very efficient, the existing plan is composed of 2 bedrooms a small kitchen and living, with the addition of a large enclosed and uninsulated deck on the southern side.
The site is situated on the edge of a forest, and slopes down toward the south where a dam is located at the bottom of the property. On the high end to the north, is a large vegetable and fruit orchard and some spectacular massive Red Tinglewood trees.
The client initially wanted the addition of another bedroom. However, after testing various configurations, we proposed instead to utilise the existing addition made to the south - a large 12m x 6m semi-enclosed space, as a flexible and open ‘sleep out’ and living area. Structurally this space is composed of a timber frame and a high polycarbonate clad timber truss.
The existing efficiency of the plan is preserved, and where possible its shortcomings, mainly the lack of engagement with views and natural light are alleviated.
A decking has been proposed around 3 sides of the building defined by a continuous pergola that shifts in width on each side to accommodate use and filter the strong winds and sun. On the east an outdoor laundry is proposed. Existing ceilings will be raked to maximise height, whilst new openings are introduced in the walls and roof at strategic locations.
The existing rooms are reconfigured toward the landscape, natural light and passive ventilation. The bathroom and odd additional toilet are re-conceived as a ‘powder room’ for guests, integrated with the cabinetry at the entry. This area is treated as an independent block with lower ceilings and contrasting materiality. The building will be re-clad in hard wearing galvanised tin.
Where possible we have tried to minimise new work, taking the spirit of the transportable that utilises a compact square organisation method.
+ Updates 2022
During design development the scope of the renovations were reduced due to the complexities of the existing conditions. Alteration of the roof would be difficult and costly given the somewhat messy jarrah framed structure - so a more conservative approach was needed. Materials were revised to those options locally available, and which the owners can easily construct. The decision was made to keep the existing silhouette of the building.The plan remains largely the same, with the addition of two large shed like sliding doors to either side of the sleepout, which is now conceived as an enclosed balcony with a louvred facade.
+ Updates AUGUST 2023
Facade nearing completion.
+ Updates MAY 2023
Cladding work has begun.
+ Updates Feb 2023
Outrigger completed, structural works made to existing roof, roof replaced and insulated.
+ Updates Jan 2023
Rammed concrete retaining wall completed using Laterite boulders found on site, as large scale exposed aggregate. Materials arrive on site for roof and walls.
Outrigger nears completion.
