2016 - 2026
Building smaller can make a bigger impact. Birdhaus is a new single-storey two-bedroom dwelling in an inner-west suburb of Sydney. The sectional form allows for the feeling of generosity within the compact plan.
The house appears as a simple weatherboard worker’s cottage from the street, a nod to the original structure on the tapered block. Its gabled roof extends towards the rear, accommodating the living, kitchen and dining areas. A private wing at the back, with two bedrooms, a bathroom and a separate WC, overlooks the garden as the block widens towards the rear laneway. A south-facing light scoop and operable roof lights illuminate the interior, while external Venetian blinds and a deep pergola control solar access to north-facing windows.
A small courtyard, planted with a Coolabah tree, separates the street-facing home office from the main house, which is tucked away at the rear of the site.
To comply with flood planning controls, the house is elevated. New garden terraces extend up to the house, while accommodating overland flows across the site and into the open stormwater channel. Rocks and dense planting create a refuge in the inner city, encouraging wildlife to visit. Nesting boxes have been incorporated under the eaves for micro-bats and swallows.
Sustainable environmental strategies, including Passivhaus principles, are integrated into both the building and landscape. A substantial photovoltaic array and a 20kL rainwater harvesting system have been installed.
Materials are specified to be reclaimed and/or recycled from the site whenever possible. Timber joists are repurposed as bench tops and shelving, and timber floors were salvaged from other buildings. Existing bricks from demolition were cleaned up on-site and reused in the build. Chemical-free materials and finishes are also specified, such as untreated timber for stud work and roof framing. High-energy-embodied materials like aluminium and steel are avoided as much as possible. Product suppliers were selected for their sustainability and environmental credentials.
The client’s vision for the project is to create an oasis in the centre of the city, attracting birds, animals and insects. It’s a house for wildlife as much as it is for people.
Landscape design by Phillip Johnson Landscapes, Constructed by Bauen Building, Structure by Cantilever, Civil by Rebal Engineering, Townplanning by LPDS.
Suppliers: Artedomus, Binq, Brickworks, Murobond, Sussex Taps, Tretford
Tim Ross & Kevin McCloud visits the house and has a chat to our clients on Big Design Adventure. Listen to episode House for Birds.
