Tarben Creek
The existing dwelling is poorly situated on the site, resulting in a large, unusable front setback dominated by a concrete driveway. Internally, the layout is inefficient and disconnected from the external landscape, with minimal access to natural sunlight. The entry to the dwelling is via an external stair, which necessitates an additional internal stair for access to the garage level, leading to generally poor vertical circulation.
The design brief called for a reconfiguration of the internal layout to create a family home accommodating teenage children. This new design aims to provide flexible spaces for entertaining while allowing adults the ability to retreat to private areas. Additionally, improvements are needed for access into the dwelling, internal vertical circulation, and better utilisation of the front setback to enhance connection to natural sunlight, as well as the existing rear north-facing backyard and pool area.
The design emphasises the separation of public and private areas by incorporating a series of external courtyards and light wells. A newly constructed garden-roofed carport within the front setback not only offers practical car parking space but also grants access to a sheltered and private southern courtyard adjacent to a new rumpus room.
A new central courtyard positioned at the entrance allows northern light to penetrate deeply into the southern sections of the house, serving as a lightwell for a newly designed internal stair.