Nestled within an urban landscape, Tin Shed House makes a statement about its surroundings, whilst adapting to them at the same time. The result emerges as an ode to Australian heritage and sustainable living. The planning has been oriented differently to the traditional layout, turning the living areas toward the side boundary rather than towards the backyard. This unconventional orientation provides a sun-drenched living space and carves out space on the lot for a second, smaller dwelling in what was once the backyard. This not only funds the entire venture but also creates two residences, each boasting generous north-facing courtyards and living areas that bask in the warmth of natural light.
Sustainability is not an afterthought but a guiding principle. Roof overhangs and strategically placed shading devices work in harmony to regulate solar exposure, minimising the need for artificial heating and cooling. Ceiling fans and louvre windows promote cross-ventilation that keeps the interior cool during summer. When winter arrives, large expanses of glass act as solar collectors, providing ample heat gain. The layout itself is partitioned thoughtfully, reducing the energy required to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. Complementing these passive strategies are a photovoltaic system and a rainwater harvesting setup.
The material palette is a poetic tribute to the Australian landscape and its colonial past. Corrugated zincalume cladding evokes the rustic charm of tin sheds that dot the rural landscape outside the cities, while an ochre cladding conjures the iconic hues of the vast outback. Timber, sourced responsibly and recycled where possible, is exclusively of Australian species. The landscaping also makes a statement, transitioning from manicured gardens to a 're-wilding' initiative. Native and endemic species are reintroduced, reinstating the biodiversity that once thrived on the site.
Tin Shed House serves as a compelling narrative of what modern Australian identity can aspire to be—a harmonious blend of history, sustainability, and a forward-looking ethos. It challenges the notion that suburban development must come at the expense of our cherished natural landscapes. Instead, it stands as a testament to the possibility of crafting a built environment that not only coexists with but also pays homage to the native bushland that was its precursor. It's a vision of a future where we don't have to choose between progress and preservation, but can, in fact, have both.
Feature: The Daily Telegraph - Home Magazine (February 6, 2021)
Location:
Gymea, Sydney, Australia
Completed:
2017
Builder:
Build by Design
Landscaping:
Amrock Landscapes
Photography:
Andy Macpherson
The Gutherie Project