Clayfield House

Situated in Brisbane’s inner north the project is a domestic renovation, that adapts an existing introverted 1930’s “timber and tin” house by flanking it with a series of flexible spaces – veranda like in qualities - to support family life in a relaxed “Brisbane Suburban” environment.

Integrity of the original house has been addressed, with the removal of earlier “ad hock” renovation growths and brick infill “make over attempts;” being replaced with an extension that respects and clearly delineates the new from existing by scale and expression.

An important aspect of the renovation was to elaborate upon the established connection and proximityto the ground, site occupation and use; and nestle within the neighboring Residential context by keeping the house on one functional level, while reinforcing the relationship and access to the Front (Semi Public) and Back Yard (Private).

Master Planning of the site included a series of supporting little structures including gatehouse, workshop, bike shed and chicken run.

The plan distinguishes private/ sleeping from living spaces by redefining circulation paths. Living spaces open fully to connect with the street and landscape, create an entry to the house and form the public zone for cooking and family gathering. The new circulation paths are breezeways, designed to allow for activities such as play, study and reading with sleeping spaces opening up to each other and to the breezeway. The library and study is located on a new central axis between the private and public zones.

The house can be easily adjusted naturally to provide comfortable environment in all seasons with space edges multi layered. The house can be circumnavigated by bicycles, stores 22 500 litres of rainwater, supports backyard performances from a veranda edge amphitheatre, cools and is warmed easily and intends to support the daily routine of a young family with ease and minimal fuss.