Lemon Wedge House | Philip Leeson Architects

2020 ACT Architecture Awards

2020 ACT Architecture Awards: People's Choice

Lemon Wedge House | Philip Leeson Architects

Residential Architecture - Houses (New)

Sited within the Radburn town-planning precinct of Curtin, Lemon Wedge House has two key public frontages that were carefully considered in the planning of this single-level courtyard home. The Radburn town-planning approach places substantial focus on pedestrian friendly housing, which the design of Lemon Wedge House reinforces.

Whilst for some the direct proximity of the private living spaces to the pedestrian thoroughfare and community green spaces may be confronting, the spirit of community that this planning type fosters, as well as the passive surveillance that it enables, is as relevant today as it was in the 1960s.

Lemon Wedge House strikes a bold silhouette with a prominent roof form that is highly visible to the public frontages. This is an intentionally defensive gesture that casts a high shield and protective skin in response to the exposed setting, which diminishes in scale within the central, private courtyard.

Client perspective:
How does the design benefit the way you live/work/play/operate/educate/other?

The home gives us a great sense of space with abundant natural light and fresh air, strong connections to the garden and adjoining oval/green space. We love the playful accents of colour throughout and the generous open plan living area, which is complemented by smaller private spaces. The main living area has direct access to outdoor living areas, which was very important for us, including the inner, winter courtyard garden; BBQ terrace; and all-important G&T terrace that looks out to the oval/green space! It’s a single level house with no steps, providing us the opportunity to age in place gracefully.