Location: North Warrandyte, Victoria, Australia
Floor area: 249 sqm
Year: 2015
Architects: Alexandra Buchanan Architecture
Design Team: Hive Engineering, Nathan Burkett Landscape Design
Construction Team: Eco Edge Homes
Photography: © Debra McFadzean, Marvelle Photography
This bold contemporary home perches high above the Yarra River at North Warrandyte on a raised plateau nestled amongst dense native bushland.
Restricted access, treacherous topography and environmental and bushfire overlays were challenges overcome during the process to resolve a monumental form and ambitious structure. View corridors and solar orientation directly influenced the building’s position and arrangement.
Twin butterfly roofs were developed to enable sailing eaves to frame views of the tree canopy and sky and allow sunlight to illuminate interior spaces via high level glazing. A split form allows two ‘wings’ of the dwelling to be sited independently so that views, privacy and outdoor access can be enjoyed unimpeded.
Combining stone and timber with contemporary construction materials including glass and steel the dwelling takes its cues from the material character of the rocky and forested surrounds. Naturally finished stone walls bring tactility and warmth to the interior and allow the exterior of the building to gently recede into the bushland setting.
Alexandra Buchanan Architecture
All images courtesy of Alexandra Buchanan Architecture | © Debra McFadzean, Marvelle Photography
PLANS
Alexandra Buchanan Architecture
Director
Alexandra established her practice, Alexandra Buchanan Architecture, in Melbourne in 2011. Engaged in projects large and small, the studio has a particular specialty in housing and projects that engage the community.
Alexandra is a design-led architect registered in both Australia and the United Kingdom, with experience ranging from public buildings, mixed use development, master-planning, bespoke residential and hospitality.
Alexandra has contributed to the Australian Institute of Architects in Queensland as a Small Practice Forum member, panel member and state awards juror.
Her founding belief is that the architectural journey should be collaborative, dynamic and enjoyable. Her approach to lifestyle design incorporates a respectful use of materials, passive design, and manipulation of light.
Graduating from the University of Newcastle Upon Tyne in 2001 as one of Building Design Magazine’s Top 100 Students. She now leads a dynamic and talented team that is committed to solving the brief, meeting the budget and managing the ongoing challenges that a site and its context present.
Alexandra takes great pride in the design delivery of projects that consistently exceed expectations. more
CONTACT
BRISBANE
The London Woolstores.
7 / 30 Florence Street
Teneriffe, QLD, 4005
T: +61 (0) 7 3252 2613
M: +61 (0) 423 566 632
MELBOURNE
ROOM 104a
10 Elizabeth Street
Kensington, VIC 3031
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Alexandra Buchanan Architecture
