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House in the Dry | MRTN Architects

Drought is never far from mind in this part of Australia. This meant that the design of this Tamworth house was focused, not only on regenerating the land and creating a garden, but also on resisting drought conditions in future. The creation of an almost totally enclosed courtyard garden in the centre of the house was one way of dealing with this. At the front of the properties, two sheds connected by a roof also connect to the house on either side, forming a square around this central courtyard.

House in the Dry offers an architecture that sits low on the land, with elongated forms that recede into the landscape. Providing views of the foothills and a sense of being embedded within the Australian landscape, the finished house is intelligent in design but simple in expression.

Oak Gully House | Max Pritchard Gunner Architects

A small, timeless, family home that reflects traditional hills houses with their pitched iron roofs and local random stone.

Orientation to maximise passive solar performance was a key goal for the project. The resolution is two narrow pavilions. These reduce the visual bulk of the house and, orientated east west, maximize north facing windows for winter sun. The dark burnished concrete floor and internal stone effectively act as heat sink storing heat from the winter sun to warm the house at night. Internally a restrained material pallet create a warm timeless aesthetic.

The owners report how their house has been a social success with so many local residents calling past for a closer look and to compliment the design. It’s a great example of a couple, passionate about architecture, having the opportunity to share their passion with the local community and promote thoughtful sensitive design.

Mellow Yellow House and Cottage | Philip Leeson Architects and Sarah Truscott Architect

Mellow Yellow House and Cottage, a two–stage project by Philip Leeson Architects and Sarah Truscott Architect is a synthesis of sustainability, functionality, and intergenerational living. The addition seamlessly integrates renewable energy and passive design in a quiet sanctuary for the owners, whilst the later upgrade to the original cottage blends modern aesthetics with the original form. Both stages cater to specific family needs, accommodating elderly parents and anticipating future arrangements for a carer and the owner’s son with autism.

These projects significantly contribute to the public domain; the solar–centric addition exemplifies sustainable living without compromising aesthetics, while the cottage preserves the streetscape with minor contemporary additions. Thoughtful design choices optimise solar exposure and enhance liveability, reflecting the collaborative efforts of the multidisciplinary team.

Mellow Yellow House and Cottage, beyond any architectural merit, fosters deep connections between architects and owners, and creates a flexible living environment resonating with community spirit.

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