Turrbal and Yuggera
Queensland
Brisbane
The Fallen Tower House is a playful and thoughtful extension that accompanies two existing buildings on the site: a small cottage and art studio. Â
Originally a two-storey tower was considered, until an economic strategy emerged to tip it over to become a single-storey addition. Every effort was made to make this version even more delightful through materiality and geometry. Â
Vertical corrugated metal cladding became horizontal. Skylights became awning windows. A circular window remained as a whistling mouth. The structure was recessed making the fallen tower appear to be floating. Â
The planning redescribes the arrival sequence, entering via a sunken lounge at ground level. A bleacher stair connects to a new bedroom and the existing house. Social spaces are brought to the centre, allowing bedrooms (new and old) to retreat to the edges. It offers new ways of living and exhibiting art, described as flexible and intuitive by the owners.  Â
The extension has created a home that feels open, calm, and flexible. The living room now sits at the heart of the house and supports different ways of being together, rather than a fixed layout. The stair running through the space has become an informal place to sit, talk, or pause and look out to the garden. The bedroom at the back feels quiet and protected, with carefully placed windows framing the garden and sky. Our daughter moves easily through the space, using it for play and creativity, making the house feel intuitive and lived in.