Ti-tree Cape Schanck House by Jackson Clements Burrows (JCBA)
This house located in wavy landscpe at Cape Schanck, an Australian wildfire zone amongst dense coastal ti-tree shrub with expansive area and prior to the landscape being significantly cleared by early European farmers the area was inhabited by local aborigines. An expansive wall which conceals the primary upper level form seen in frontyard. The lower level extends from the steep ground plane as a rendered plinth and forms a base much like the surrounding dunes. A winding driveway climbs the steep dune accessing the upper level behind a screen fence which conceals the view beyond. From here the entry experience opens to expansive views over the living area, deck and pool.
The primary upper level form (conceived as a hollowed out log) contains the kitchen, dining, living, garage and laundry. A secondary upper level form (conceived as a branch extending from the log) contains the study, master bedroom and ensuite. Cedar windows and cladding left in a natural finish are sleeved into the black exterior accentuating the difference between the interior and exterior as if part of a natural weathering process. The lower level contains guest accommodation and conceals functional plant spaces for mechanical systems and pool equipment.
To control passive heating in summer, the western windows are protected by extensive eaves and motorised external Vental louvre blinds automatically descend once the sun passes through the north axis. Extensive northern glass is also protected by sunshades which limit solar penetration in summer. Further sustainable design considerations include fully automated electrical systems to reduce unnecessary power drain.
Architect : Jackson Clements Burrows Pty Ltd Architects
