![]() ![]() “Keeping a large portion of the existing building and minimising the extent of the build, the budget was selectively focused,” shared the architects. With a focus on craftsmanship, Downie North chose materials for their longevity, sustainability and potential future reuse. The concealed ventilation in the eaves drags this air inside, passively cooling the house irrespective of the weather. The folded roof plane acts like a wing, lifting the air movement over the ridge. The folded roof plane cranks to the north to capture the winter light, extending to the east to form the monsoon eave. Comparatively, dining and living spaces are gently contained by retractable sliding doors. The masonry wall, housing the kitchen and pantry, creates the protective back. The new structure comprises four architectural components-the wall, the screen, the platform and the roof-offering precise yet elemental inhabitation reminiscent of the campsite’s minimal shelter. Stepping up from the original level of the house, the rear addition addresses the slope and minimises the need for excavation, resulting in living spaces that connect directly with the garden. “There was a financial and environmental imperative to retain the majority of the existing Federation-era home,” said Catherine and Daniel, who undertook minor modifications and repairs to the front rooms-the bedrooms, wet areas and formal living room. With an unusually deep backyard near the top of the ridgeline, originally a processional spine for the Cammeraygal and Borogegal peoples, the site enjoys coastal breezes harnessed in the design. “Importantly, they sought a design that made the most of its aspect and environs so that they could passively operate the house throughout the year,” state the architects. “At its simplest, the house is like a picnic rug laid under a protective canopy,” explains the duo.Īs avid cooks and entertainers, the clients were after a sizeable kitchen and a ‘no fuss’ informal dining and family area that delivered an effortless sense of ease. Their poetic design response replicates the idea of camping. ![]() ![]() Known for designing playful, witty and warm houses with finely crafted moments of delight, Downie North fully embraced the young family’s love of the garden. “The rear of the house, which formed the focus of the design, originally contained a small kitchen and meals areas-a pseudo playroom and laundry,” explain Catherine and Daniel. In case you’re wondering, the project title is an acronym of the clients’ names, also referencing their native bee hive-a moniker that, according to the architects, “encapsulates the client-focused, collaborative design process.” Tasked to create a new addition to their single-level Federation-era home in Mosman, House for BEES encompasses an elegant addition for a young family of four directly connected to the garden. Shared values of connectedness, place-making and passive design lead the client to Downie North, a Sydney-based architecture studio of Catherine Downie and Daniel North, partners in life and work. ![]()
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