Moomairremener People
Tasmania
Jordan House is a heritage listed property comprising a two storey late Georgian residence (circa1850) and sandstone stable set within a rural setting.
The project focused on the restoration of the Georgian building and a reconsideration of the existing site through the new built elements as they interact with the stable, the farm and the surrounding landscape.
The brief required demolition of a 1970s extension at the rear of the heritage building, which also included a heritage outbuilding. This allowed for open-plan additions that seamlessly blend with the surrounding farm environment, providing a functional living space that complements the property’s heritage character.
The project was completed in stages, allowing for the removal of non-heritage elements and the careful exposure of layers of heritage features. These initial stages revealed concealed conditions, which could be understood and integrated into the new design.
Jordan House presents a refined and considered approach to working with a heritage dwelling. The light-filled addition thoughtfully responds to both the original building fabric and the broader rural context. The new structure embraces a traditional gable form, drawing inspiration from the scale and character of the former outbuildings that made way for the new works.
The planning of the new addition reinforces the circulation axis of the Georgian plan, visually connecting both buildings and establishing a clear hierarchy of spaces that separates living and sleeping areas. A deliberate separation between the addition and the original rear façade has enabled the careful reconstruction of heritage elements, offering a moment of pause that allows the historic dwelling to be appreciated in its entirety.
The addition is crafted with a restrained material palette, including recycled brick, steel framing and blackbutt timber, the restrained form and precise roof detailing echo the simplicity and discipline of the existing Georgian architecture.
Highly crafted timber joinery enriches the interiors, providing a functional, warm, and robust environment suited to the rhythm of farming life. Honest material selections reflect the surrounding agricultural landscape, ensuring durability while reinforcing the home’s connection to place.
Jordan House is awarded for the thoughtful manner in which the heritage building is enhanced by a contemporary extension of elegant simplicity, where well-defined forms showcase steel products and detailing delights with careful and innovative resolution, such as the subtly enveloped steel gutters that subvert the requirement for rainwater heads and downpipes that are concealed within PFC members. The steelwork elements all contribute toward the crisp aesthetic, convincingly integrated with timber and concrete to create a calm and welcoming home.
The transformation & extension of Jordan House was always going to be a delicate balance of blending old and new. Our priority was to restore and highlight the 1800s heritage elements whilst creating a modern and functioning family home. The end result has exceeded our expectations providing spaces that enhance our lifestyle from a busy family of 5 (including farmer & school kids) through to connections with our operating farm and surrounding environment. The light-filled new extension provides connectivity, warmth and function (particularly in designated utility areas) whilst paying homage to heritage elements that were important to us.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
