McKellar House

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This new house sits within a recent subdivision in North Canberra. This project interrogates the archetypal form of the typical pitched roof residence which dominates a large proportion of the Australian suburban morphology. The extensive underutilised roof void typical of many suburban dwellings is transformed into impressive vaulted ceilings.

The external form of the house resembles a simplified version of the typical pitched roof dwelling. Facades are composed from a sophisticated palette of materials consisting of raw blockwork, metal panels and glass. A series of cantilevered boxes constructed from Australian hardwood timber slats emphasise primary window openings while exposed steelwork highlights the simple pitched roof form of the dwelling. The interior of the home adopts a more simplified materiality. Simple white walls and ceilings emphasise timber and polished concrete flooring along with the the exposed steel portal frame.

The planning of the home defines an internal courtyard, creating a safe and protected play area for the young family. Extensive glazed openings to the courtyard provide living areas with ample natural light without compromising privacy. Window openings in the street facades are carefully located to capture views to a nearby wetland while blocking views to neighbouring houses. A number of window seats, hobs and steps encourage users to engage with the architecture.

Landscaping surrounding the home is a contemporary representation of the nearby wetland. The inclusion of a modern front veranda and the provision of seating within the garden encourage the family to engage with the landscape surrounding the home