Mosman Minka

The design seeks to be a polite and adroit neighbour, a quiet sibling that allows the dialogue of the existing streetscape to remain uninterrupted. By valuing and echoing the older existing house, the design engenders a sense of continuity and partisanship.

Responding to the building tradition of the existing context in proportion and form, the new ridge and roofline convey a respectful and calm approach- little is seen from the public domain. Avoiding the ‘mullet addition’ (straight at the front, party out the back) the addition plants feet firmly on the ground, framing the rear garden by use of brick pylons that in turn support the protective roof line above. Whilst echoing the existing house in footprint, the asymmetry of the roof was borne of orientation (responding to sun path, whilst minimising overshadowing to neighbours) connecting to view corridors and maximising passive ventilation.

Sustainability

Existing built fabric was retained or reused. Reclaimed brick, timber framing and glazing, sourced close to site, with minimal steel and concrete minimised the carbon footprint. The house is all electric; powered by a solar array. Passive ventilation is achieved through a series of operable hatches, allowing adjustment to climatic conditions.