Courtyard House

The combination of sheds and home are based around a central courtyard which not only provides privacy but once the landscaping is complete, will provide a protected oasis which is visible from the entire house area. Additional smaller courtyards give options for even more personal and protected spots from which to enjoy a sunny morning or cool afternoon breeze. In true Australian style, the sheds are clad in colourbond. But on approach to the entrance you are greeted by the imposing triple stone wall, built from locally sourced stone by a structural stonemason. This is complemented by the recycled spotted gum timber cladding and extensive use of glazing. Many walkways around the home are either glazed in or screened in, to protect from weather and insects. Roofing is traditional galvanised iron, which will dull with age and blend progressively into its surroundings. Living area floors are a combination of burnished concrete and pattern paved brickwork, with tiles and carpet in the bedroom wings. The concrete slab in itself was a complex creation – to achieve the 11 different finished floor heights with various flooring materials, we incorporated 23 different slab heights, plus adjustments for hobs. Designed to maximise the warmth provided by the sun during winter, the north-facing living areas feature timber-clad fin walls, and a window sill with a 500 mm wide spotted gum reveal adjacent to the huge 4.5 m wide double glazed sliding door which opens to let the outside in. Within the living areas, complex timber framing forms multiple angles and planes on the ceilings and allowed us to cushion the sound within as well as create the impression of rooms-within- rooms.A combination of timber cabinetry with integrated appliances form the basis of the stunning kitchen and pantry area, complemented by cedar walls and ceiling, and stone, timber and stainless benchtops. It is both beautiful to look at as well as highly functional. Outdoor entertaining is simple in the fully screened Alfresco with custom seating. For year round comfort it also has its own open fireplace and ceiling fan; a perfect spot to sit and chat with friends into the evening. The timber used extensively throughout offers beauty and for whatever reason invokes the desire to simply touch it. And because every piece of timber is unique it also holds such character and warmth. Fitting it required craftsmanship: every piece was carefully thought about, so that we achieved smooth timber with neat finishes and flowing lines without joins in the detailed work.
A truly unique home.
~~~~~~~
Award winning project at the Master Builders Association Excellence in Construction awards 2021 (Newcastle Region):

Best Custom Built Home
Best Use of Bricks