Gadigal people of the Eora Nation
New South Wales
Fun House seeks to push preconceptions of space per person on a small 117m2 urban site. The primary dwelling is constructed behind the existing cottage frontage and a secondary detached dwelling sits along the rear lane. Separation between the dwellings offers flexibility in household permutations, with a total of 6 people being able to reside on the site. The maximised central courtyard was important to provide both dwellings with access to light, ventilation and landscape outlooks.
Also serving as an intermediate space, each dwelling can passively interact with one another from across the courtyard. The incorporation of varying paint colours and material textures gives each room unique personalities within the efficient floor plan. Built to the Passive House Standard, using durable materials and high-performance detailing means the dwellings are futureproofed to withstand extreme weather events, whilst using very low operational energy.
Commendation for Sustainable Architecture
Fun House exemplifies a pioneering approach to sustainable urban living, skilfully integrating small-scale architecture with cutting-edge environmental design. Through meticulous attention to life cycle assessment, energy efficiency, and material selection, Alexander Symes Architect has set a new standard for sustainable urban infill.
Their commitment to sustainability principles and dedication to adaptive reuse and minimal environmental impact establishes Fun House as a beacon of innovation and inspiration for sustainable development in urban contexts.
“We are an extended family who work, live and laugh together. Funhouse allows us to be in close proximity to each other to share meals, interests, relaxation and work whilst also providing moments of privacy. The primary dwelling houses one family with shared kitchen facilities and the secondary dwelling houses another with a home office downstairs. The central courtyard is the meeting point and extended kitchen via the outdoor BBQ and a place to connect with nature in our courtyard with finned and feathered friends, and an evolving foraging garden. It may seem small, but it’s an oasis of luxury in a burgeoning metropolis.