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Send us a drawing, tell us a story, win $2,500! Call for entries begins June 10th. Register for the One Drawing Challenge today.
As a profession and an art, architecture has long been defined by a dependence on line and delineation, by the need to describe buildings and spaces. Consequently, for the majority of human history, the ability to draw by hand was central to the practice of architecture. But as Computer Aided Design (CAD) and digital technology became popularized, the role of hand drawing has been questioned.

Today, the debate continues: What is the role of hand drawing in contemporary practice? This question lies at the heart of Architizer's global ideas competition, the One Drawing Challenge. Both hand drawings and CAD drawings are eligible for the competition, and it will prove fascinating to see which medium entrants choose to tell their visual stories.

The following collection looks at the different ways in which architects have utilized hand drawing techniques to represent buildings over the decades, from traditional drafting to modern, graphic imagery. Their incredible variety points to the fact that, as a medium, the storytelling power of hand drawings are limited only by the imagination of their creator.

Will hand drawing ever die out? If these sketches are anything to go by, don't count on it:

Frederick C. Robie House by Frank Lloyd Wright

Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic drawings and sketches are known around the world. As a prolific architect, one of the best known expressions of his Prairie style was the Robie House. The project was conceived as an integral whole - site and structure, interior and exterior, furniture, ornament and architecture, each element is connected. The design focuses on horizontality and a configuration of sliding planes in its plan. In his drawing, Wright places the house in context, showing not just the horizontal elements but softening the work through greenery.

Jewish Museum Berlin by Daniel Libeskind, Berlin, Germany

In early sketches for the Jewish Museum, Libeskind worked with pencils and color to encapsulate the complex history of Jews across the globe. The design was based on three insights: it is impossible to understand the history of Berlin without understanding the contributions made by its Jewish citizens; the meaning of the Holocaust must be integrated into the consciousness and memory of the city of Berlin; and, finally, for its future, the City of Berlin and the country of Germany must acknowledge the erasure of Jewish life in its history. Libeskind would go on to win the competition, and his drawings are closely tied to the final built form of the museum.

41 Cooper Square by Morphosis, New York, NY, United States

41 Cooper Square was designed to manifest the character, culture and vibrancy of both the 150 year-old institution and of the city in which it was founded. The proejct aspires to reflect the institution's stated goal to create an iconic building - one that reflects its values and aspirations as a center for advanced and innovative education in Art, Architecture and Engineering. Through the sketch, you can begin to understand initial ideas on the façade and the "vertical piazza", a central space for informal exchange at the heart of the new academic building.

東京都 - Tokyo Metropolis by Alexander Daxböck

At first glance, Alexander Daxböck's 東京都 - Tokyo Metropolis looks totally outside conventions of hand drawing. Alex utilizes a common graphic and visual language as an alternative representational tool for architectural designs. Manga or 漫画 (composed of the two kanji 漫 [man] meaning "whimsical or impromptu" and 画 [ga] meaning "pictures) is a Japanese manifestation of a globalized mediascape for the mass circulation of images, primarily via printed media like comic books, magazines and newspapers but also now via new media like internet, video games and mobile phones. Manga is fun and entertaining to read, rooted in the daily life of millions of Japanese people. Daxböck's work studies the city through this lens, analyzing the elements and composition of the city and the medium through which it is spread and distributed.

Berkshire Residence by Tom Kundig, New Marlborough, Massachusetts

Set on three hundred acres of rolling Berkshire landscape, this residence by Olson Kundig was sited in the ecotone - the border between two adjacent ecological systems. The house stretches along the line where the forest meets the meadow. The building is thin enough that each room, as you move through the house, balances a feeling of interior refuge with distant prospect views. The main level of the house was raised about 10 feet above the ground, partly to maximize the views, but also to get up above the humidity and insects in the summertime, and the snow in the winter. Accordingly, the architect's sketches show a house that appears to hover above rolling bluffs - creating what Kundig describes as an elegant and comfortable tree fort.

Fleas and Surface Applicants by Bryan Cantley

Through sections, plans, sketches and projections, we discover the ideas driving architecture's evolution. Look no further than the work of Bryan Cantley, where drawings are not building instructions or depictions, but invitations asking us to reframe, reinterpret and reorder. Here, drawing becomes a laboratory, a testing ground to subvert and entice. In his own words, the work lends itself to larger conversations about architecture. "When and if representation becomes part of that discussion and how that might hopefully engender a different way of thinking about built space as well as representation. It's not meant to be singular in its outcome."

- inspiration for the Duchess County Residence Guest House by Allied Works Architecture

Allied Works was commissioned to design a residence, guesthouse and private gallery on 350 acres in Dutchess County, New York. The cascading path of the charcoal line drawing upon trace can be seen translated into the structural steel frame of the guest house of the Duchess County Estate. Located on the eastern slopes of the Hudson River Valley, the site consists of rolling hills, open meadow and dense hardwood forest. The guest house was the first building to be completed.

Château La Coste Art Gallery by Renzo Piano Building Workshop, Aix-en-Provence, France

This new gallery building in France was designed by RPBW in the heart of the grapevines of the Château La Coste. The 285 sq. meters pavilion aimed to both display art and preserve wine. Due to the natural topography of the soil, it was decided to carve a 6 meters deep valley in the earth so as to fully incorporate the building into the vineyard. From Renzo's sketch you can begin to understand the relationship between ground and roof, gallery and sail. The pure glazed façades and roof contrast with the simple exposed concrete used for both the retaining and the exhibition walls. The partly buried building highlights the roof covered with a sail fastened to thin metal arches. These arches echo the graphical layout of the grapevines, enabling to integrate the sail into the vineyard.

Façade detail for the Palacio da Alvorada, Brasilia by Oscar Niemeyer

Brazilian modernist architect Oscar Niemeyer believe that it was through drawing that architecture emerged. Niemeyer's sketches were integral to the formal development of his projects and helped him to develop his own distinct style of modern architecture. Niemeyer's work favored sinuous lines and curved forms that reflect the organic forms of his Brazilian surroundings. Perhaps one of his best known monuments was designed for his country's futuristic capital, Brasilia. Shown here is a sketch by Niemeyer of the Palacio da Alvorada that shows his initial thoughts on façade details.

Disney Concert Hall by Gehry Partners, Los Angeles, CA, United States

In Frank Gehry's original design, Walt Disney Concert Hall was intended to be clad in stone. But with the financial challenge of cutting curved stone, and after receiving much acclaim for his titanium building in Bilbao, he changed the stone to metal. With this new material Gehry was able to tweak the shape of the exterior, creating the iconic silver sails. His early sketches show how he thought about the sails and the fold of the building, now standing with a curving stainless steel skin that echoes the billows in the auditorium and plays off the bowed cornice of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.
Now show us what you can do: Register for the One Drawing Challenge and submit your best architectural drawing for a chance to win $2,500! Register for the One Drawing Challenge

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10 Hand-Drawn Sketches that Prove CAD Will Never Kill Drawing - Architizer Journal

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Send us a drawing, tell us a story, win $2,500! Call for entries begins June 10th. Register for the One Drawing Challenge today. As a profession and an art, architecture has long been defined by a dependence on line and delineation, by the need to describe buildings and spaces.

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Dimensions | Database of Dimensioned Drawings

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A comprehensive reference database of dimensioned drawings documenting the standard measurements and sizes of the everyday objects and spaces that make up our world.

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Novo Jardim Social Housing / Jirau Arquitetura

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Completed in 2016 in Jardim Boa Vista, Brazil. Images by Antonio Preggo. The production of Social Housing inside the Northeast, almost invariably, it is about the construction of One-Story Houses, with 2 rooms, a single...

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https://mcgregorcoxall.com/project-detail/1123

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McGregor Coxall collaborated with JCB and Hecker Guthrie to develop the masterplan for Piermont Retreat, a tourist & residential development on the north-west shore of Great Oyster Bay and overlooking Freycinet National Park in Tasmania. McGregor Coxall led the landscape design delivering a concept plan which celebrates the site's untouched nature and sense of community whilst emphasising a sense of freedom and comfort for prospective visitors and residents. The concept provides luxury on site amenities in the form of an artisan indoor / outdoor café and restaurant including a kitchen garden which will integrate the estate with the wider community. A sense of destination and arrival is articulated through a sequence of landscapes that navigate the estate and invite visitors to experience the site's surrounding farmland and orchards, interpreting the main buildings and interstitial spaces allowing them to enjoy the outdoor areas surrounding the main building complex.

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Piermont Retreat | Projects | McGregor Coxall

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McGregor Coxall collaborated with JCB and Hecker Guthrie to develop the masterplan for Piermont Retreat, a tourist & residential development on the north-west shore of Great Oyster Bay and overlooking Freycinet National Park in Tasmania.

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Mortlock Lee House, Girraween, Northern Territory, Australia Troppo Architects

Jureidini Beulah Park, South Australia, Troppo Architects

Troppo is a national architecture and design practice, regionally based aiming to develop regionally responsive architectures. We are committed to the notion of environmentally sustainable design and responsible architecture. We have offices in Fremantle, in Western Australia, Bryon Bay and Sydney in New South Wales, Adelaide in South Australia, Launceston in Tasmania, Darwin in the Northern Territory.

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Mortlock Lee House, Girraween, Northern Territory, Australia Troppo Architects Jureidini Beulah Park, South Australia, Troppo Architects Troppo is a national architecture and design practice, regionally based aiming to develop regionally responsive architectures. We are committed to the notion of environmentally sustainable design and responsible architecture.

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The Design Files | Australia's most popular design blog.

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Architecture

The Australian Institute of Architects last week announced the winners of the Tasmanian Architecture Awards, which recognises excellence and achievements in public, residential, education and commercial architecture, as well as sustainable innovation in the field.

The rugged beauty of the Tasmanian landscape never fails to excite designers from around the country. And this year's crop of finalists is no exception!

Today we take a tour through the winners of the Residential Architecture - Houses (New) and Residential Architecture - Houses (Alterations + Additions) categories.

From urban residences to isolated riverside retreats, the projects that won big in the Tasmanian Architecture Awards are constantly responding to their environment. Albeit in different ways!

The Lower Jordan Hill Road house by Taylor + Hinds Architects received the Edith Emery Award for Residential Architecture (Alterations + Additions) . Archier and Bence Mulcahy received category awards for their Ryde Street House and Hampden Road project respectively, while Crump Architects and Cumulus Studio took out commendations.

Though no award was recognised for the Residential Architecture category for completely new houses, the panel recognised two projects for commendations. The Lake House by Biotope Architecture + Interiors put a contemporary spin on traditional settlement-era architecture. The single-storey longhouse takes its shape and material palette from bluestone Hobart cottages to create a striking lakeside homestead surrounded by bushland. In addition, the Stringybark Residence by JAWS Architects is reminiscent of the Los Angeles Case Study houses, but with a Tasmanian twist! Set firmly in the Bonnet Hill wilderness the low, geometric house makes exciting use of timber at every opportunity.

In addition to the residential categories, Bence Mulcahy took out the Barry McNeill Award for Sustainable Architecture, and Pippa Jensen of Cumulus Studio was awarded the Emerging Architect Prize.

Congratulations to the winners!
For details, hover your cursor over the above images of projects shortlisted in the Residential Architecture - Houses (New) and Residential Architecture -Houses (Alterations and Additions) categories. You can see the full awards shortlist here.

This Week

In Good Company and Banded Together bring furnishings and fashion under one roof, with a new combined concept store in Armadale!

A restrained renovation for a 1960's home in Frankston South by MRTN Architects.

Sick of your house? Four design experts share their super easy, low cost ideas to add a little pizzazz to your interiors!

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Photographer Kara Rosenlund shares her trip to Tasmania's elusive Satellite Island.

This Week

With a footprint of 28sqm, there was no room for error in the restoration of this tiny 1900s workers cottage.

From painters and weavers to textile artists and multidisciplinary creatives, these are the local artists to start collecting now.

Valerie Vigor and Giorgia Bel present a wonderful pas de deux of ceramics and paint in their exhibition, Love Story.

Painters Bec Smith and Charlotte Swiden join forces for an exhibition exploring colour, form and narrative - opening tomorrow at No Vacancy

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Photographer Kara Rosenlund shares her trip to Tasmania's elusive Satellite Island.

The Design Files acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands on which we work, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

First Nations artists, designers, makers and creative business owners are encouraged to submit their projects for coverage on The Design Files - we would love to hear from you.

Please email us here.

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The Best Tasmanian Architecture Projects Declared!

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The Australian Institute of Architects last week announced the winners of the Tasmanian Architecture Awards, which recognises excellence and achievements in public, residential, education and commercial architecture, as well as sustainable innovation in the field. The rugged beauty of the Tasmanian landscape never fails to excite designers from around the country.

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Portable, Tiny Homes for Sale in Australia

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Tiny Blox is best place to design prefabricated homes & find tiny homes for sale in Australia. tiny home kits Australia at affordable rates here!

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Get in touch!

Would you like more information about collaborating with our team of experienced, qualified architects? We'd love to run you through the opportunity of achieving a cutting-edge, high-quality Archiblox product.

Simply fill in your details, and let us know about your new project! Make sure you fill out all sections ;)

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Archiblox Modular Homes | Sustainable Prefab Homes | Victoria NSW | Discover your new home today.

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Archiblox design and build Sustainable Modular Homes perfect for the Australian climate. Made in Melbourne. Inspiring Architects, Builders, Prefab Homes and Modular Commercial Buildings. Architecturally innovative and energy efficient homes.

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Dock4 Architects is a design focused practice with expertise in public, commercial and residential projects. We work broadly across Tasmania & Victoria, having offices in both Hobart & Melbourne.

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JAWS Architects is Tasmania's most dynamic team of architects and designers.

We are renowned for consistently delivering exceptional project and design solutions.

Our diverse projects range from;

premium architectural housing solutions

sensitive area developments

award-winning tourism projects

hotels, wilderness lodges and tourist visitor and experience centres

innovative commercial and public architecture

delivering creative adaptive use design solutions for heritage buildings

multi-residential apartment developments .

At JAWS we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional client experience and take our position as an industry leader in architecture very seriously.

As advocates of best practice contemporary architecture, we also are extremely aware of operating in an ethical and professionally responsible way, gaining high regards from our clients, our industry colleagues and our talented and engaged team at JAWS.

JAWS Architects specialise in thoughtful, sustainable architectural design whilst focusing on the social, cultural, environmental and commercial value and contribution of each project or development.

Our unique project approach is to facilitate an interactive and collaborative design process which harnesses the deep and diverse experience of the JAWS team, and to mentor and guide our clients to ensure that exceptional project solutions are achieved collaboratively.
VIEW OUR PROJECTS

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JAWS Architects is Tasmania's most dynamic team of architects and designers. We are renowned for consistently delivering exceptional project and design solutions. Our diverse projects range from; premium architectural housing solutions sensitive area developments award-winning tourism projects hotels, wilderness lodges and tourist visitor and experience centres innovative commercial and public architecture delivering creative adaptive use design solutions for heritage buildings multi-residential apartment developments .

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Small Homes - Big on Features!

Stroud Homes have a number of exceptional small house plans, each of which encompass Stroud Homes' building guarantees and commitments that will ensure that your new home building experience is stress-free.

Our small home designs are ideal for smaller or narrow lots, as well as land purchased in established streets and suburbs. Our plans feature clever design solutions that will save on space, while keeping a strong focus on practicality and aesthetics.

Available in a variety of stunning façades, these two, three and four bedroom home designs contain all the necessities of modern family living and are packed with Stroud's huge range of inclusions. Browse through our small house designs below and click through to view floor plans, façade options and more.
If you have a small block but want more out of your home, take a look at our range of double storey house designs.

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At Stroud Homes, we understand how important build time is to you. We're not a laid back building company; we know you're paying interest, we know you're paying rent, and we know you need your new home built on time.

That is why Stroud Homes offers a variety of guarantees, with our most important being completing your build in a dedicated timeframe.

We understand what is important to you and your family, that is why all our guarantees will ensure to keep you happy, within your budget, and to your timeframe.
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Small House Designs | Small Home Builders | Stroud Homes

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Stroud Homes have a number of exceptional small house plans, each of which encompass Stroud Homes' building guarantees and commitments that will ensure that your new home building experience is stress-free. Our small home designs are ideal for smaller or narrow lots, as well as land purchased in established streets and suburbs.

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Alex Roughley - Magney House Bingie Point

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Alex Roughley - Magney House Bingie Point

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Magney House, Bingie Point, New South Wales, Australia : 1982-84 / 1999

Altitude: 50m above sea level. Temperate climate with coastal influence. Rainfall approx 1,000mm per year. Summer, circa 20˚C with north-east on-shore breezes. Winter, circa 15˚C with extremely cold winds from south-west off Mt. Kosciusko and lows of 5˚C. Granite soils.

Situated on the southern coast of NSW, the site is a spectacular landscape between the ocean and western mountains with a nearby lake to the north. It is exposed, windswept and rugged. The clients had owned the land for many years using it for camping holidays and were interested in a house with tent like qualities. The building is a single pavilion divided by a central court and can operate as two self contained suites, one for the parents, the other for guests or family. Living areas open onto the shared court and a connection is implied between these adjacent spaces. The separate proposed garage bay in the plan illustrated was never realised.

A repetitive bay structure is employed. Typically, large rooms with rear service facilities are divided by a lower circulation zone rendering a functional distinction in the bipartite section. The implied internal corridor supports an oversized gutter which connects at either end to two large single downpipes. In this way both the functional hierarchy of the house and the collection of rainwater are given symbolic representation in the east and west elevations.

The striking roof form also registers the architect,s development of a pavilion type with a distinct front and back and this dominant spatial orientation is primarily developed in relation to climatic considerations. The open northern face is treated as a glazed sliding screen with individually adjustable and retractable external louvres. The large angled roof overhang shades the building from summer sun and allows winter sun access. In sharp contrast, the lower rear wall facing the predominant southerly winds is largely closed and is constructed of reverse brick veneer. Continuous upper fixed glazing along the southern façade admits light and sky views. These glass panels slope away from the wall to accommodate continuous adjustable horizontal vents at door head height.
Text and images taken from 'The Architecture of Glenn Murcutt' and 'Thinking Drawing / Working Drawing' published by TOTO, Japan, 2008. Photos : Anthony Browell. Text : Heneghan, Gusheh, Lassen, Seyama.
The climatic and formal ambitions of the building are evident in the development and material resolution of the structural system. The design of the tubular steel frame refines experiments from previous buildings and achieves an extremely light skeleton. This material reduction is visible in the fine edge of the northern roof overhang where the metal skin acts with the tensile steel struts and eliminates additional supporting members. The improbably thin roof is symbolic of a house which feels unexpectedly light, almost transportable.

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Magney House Bingie Point - OZ.E.TECTURE

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Magney House, Bingie Point, New South Wales, Australia : 1982-84 / 1999 Altitude: 50m above sea level. Temperate climate with coastal influence. Rainfall approx 1,000mm per year. Summer, circa 20˚C with north-east on-shore breezes. Winter, circa 15˚C with extremely cold winds from south-west off Mt. Kosciusko and lows of 5˚C.

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An energy efficient house is one which uses energy or power efficiently.

Here in Tasmania we use a lot of energy keeping our houses warm in winter. This makes building an energy efficient house design in Tasmania vital if you want to reduce your carbon foot print, keep your power bills low and live in a comfortable house.

An energy efficient house design can be broken down into three main design principles: Power Efficiency, Passive Design & Water Efficiency. These design principles can work together creating a much more efficient house than if only one of these principles is used. For example, using efficient appliances and lights reduces the amount of energy generation and storage needed. Likewise a passive house design can reduce energy requirements for heating and cooling.

Power Efficient Design

Efficient Appliances

Appliances such as fridges, freezers, dryers, washing machines and dishwashers can make up a large percentage of a home's energy use. Choosing high efficiency rated appliances will help to reduce your homes energy requirements. The governments rating system makes it easy to choose the right appliances for your energy efficient home. Check out www.energyrating.gov.au for more information on energy ratings for appliances.

Efficient Lighting

Specifying energy efficient lights for your new house can make a considerable difference to your energy needs. LED down-lights which are very energy efficient have come down in price in recent years and are now a very cost effective and commonly used option in Tasmania. Other feature lights are also available with LED globes allowing you to use LED's for most situations.

In addition to using energy efficient artificial lighting it's also important to ensure your design includes adequate natural lighting. The National Construction Codes (NCC) require that natural lighting is provided to all habitable rooms which are used for extended periods. This includes living areas and bedrooms but does not include utility rooms such as bathrooms, laundries, pantries, storage rooms or garages. Providing utility rooms with natural lighting can reduce artificial lighting use. In bathrooms and laundries, a window which provides natural light can also provide natural ventilation making windows in these rooms desirable for most people.

Power Generation & Storage

Generating your own renewable power, most commonly with a solar PV (Photovoltaic) system provides energy that you can use in your home and feed back to the grid when not needed. The cost of solar PV systems is becoming more and more affordable. Government rebates may also be available which help to make a solar PV system an even more viable option.

Before deciding to install a Solar PV system it important to find out what your rebates are and what your feed in tariff is. A feed in tariff is the money you get back or deducted from your power bill for feeding power back to the grid. This is generally less than the cost to use power from the grid. If your feed in tariff is very low, it might be worth considering using energy storage with your Solar PV system. Storing energy, you generate during the day to use at night instead of feeding it back into the grid can make a big difference to the energy savings of your Solar PV system.

Passive House Design

A passive house design considers the climate and site conditions of a house to make it more energy efficient. In Tasmania using passive heating and appropriate levels of insulation can drastically reduce winter heating costs and make your home more comfortable

Energy and water efficient design is also important but can easily be upgraded or changed over time. Many principles of passive design need to be applied at the very start of planning a new home as they can be difficult and costly to change later.

Solar Passive Design and Orientation

A solar passive design considers the direction of the sun at different times of the day and year. This allows you to use the sun to warm your house naturally in winter while keeping windows and external walls protected from direct sun light in summer. Here are some details about different window orientations (this also applies to walls but to a much lesser extent if they're well insulated):

North windows - North facing windows allow direct sunlight to enter the home during the day. In winter this can help to warm the house. North facing windows can also be protected from the sun in summer reducing cooling costs. As the sun's angle is lower in winter than in summer a fixed eave over a window can block the summer sun while allowing the winter sun in. This is one of the most important considerations in designing a solar passive house.

South windows - South facing windows let in very little direct sunlight, but they do allow heat to escape. In cooler climates like Tasmania's it is important to minimise the size of south facing windows.

East windows - East facing windows receive direct sun in the mornings but are shaded from the sun in the afternoon. In Tasmania it is better to reduce east facing windows as they do not generate much heat gain in winter and can also cause overheating in summer.

West windows - West facing windows get direct sun in the afternoon when it is the hottest. This can be beneficial particularly in colder parts of Tasmania when the warmth can heat the house, however being able to protect west facing windows is crucial in summer. West facing windows can be protected with external shutters, louvers, adjustable awnings or deciduous trees.

Shape and Orientation

The shape and orientation of a building can have a big impact on energy efficiency. Square or short rectangular shaped houses have a smaller perimeter than one with a complex shape. This means there is less external wall area for heat to enter or escape. The orientation of the house also has a big impact as west facing walls receive direct sunlight in the afternoon which can cause overheating in summer.

Generally, the most efficient shape and orientation for a house in Tasmania is a short rectangular shape that faces north with the shorter sides facing east and west. This also makes it much easier to reduce east and west facing windows and provide plenty of north facing windows.

Thermal Mass

Solid building materials like brick, stone, tile and concrete have a high thermal mass and can be used to store thermal energy. This is an important part of designing an energy efficient house as thermal mass can regulate fluctuations or changes in temperature over a short period (day and night temperature changes).

Materials with high thermal mass use a lot of energy to change temperature. They also release energy slowly. Direct sunlight can be used to heat thermal mass. This heat will then be slowly released over night when there is no sunlight available to warm the house.

Thermal mass is less effective or can even have a negative effect if optimal window orientations are not used. For house designs with lots of west or south facing windows it may be beneficial to reduce thermal mass and use light weight construction instead.

Adding external shading can protect exposed windows from direct sunlight that can cause unwanted summer heating. It can also be used to protect walls that can heat up and radiate heat into the house.

Louvered awnings or pergolas are particularly useful as they can shade a house from the summer sun but still allow direct winter sunlight though. These can be fixed at an angle that will block the higher angle of the summer sun or they can be adjustable, so they can be opened or closed as needed. Other shading options that are useful are eaves, verandahs and screens.

Insulation

Insulation prevents heat escaping a house in winter and keeps heat out in summer. A material's insulating ability can be determined by the R-value (thermal resistance value) the higher the R-value the more resistance it has for preventing heat from pass through it. Heat is lost or gained through a home's roof, walls, windows and floor so it is important to allow for insulation to all these areas. All building materials have an R-value, but most are very low which is why added insulation is needed.

Insulation is available in two main types: reflective & bulk. Bulk insulation contains small air pockets that reduce heat transfer. Reflective insulation, which is normally aluminium foil over a paper or plastic sheet, has a shiny surface that reflects heat. Composite materials that combine the two types of insulation are also available.

The minimum insulation requirements for new homes are determined when an energy rating is completed. Most new houses in Tasmania require an R-value of 4.0 for the roof or ceilings, 2.5 for the walls and 2.5 for the floors.

Air Sealing

In Tasmania's cool climate preventing the leakage of warm air in winter can play a big part in creating an energy efficient house design. Air can escape through gaps around walls, ceilings, floors, doors, windows as well as fire places, fans and vents. Sealing these gaps can increase energy efficiency but can also cause moisture and condensation problems. When a house is well sealed it is important to provide ventilation particularly in bathrooms, kitchens and laundries where moisture and condensation can cause air quality problems. Providing moisture and condensation control in the roof space and insulation should also be considered and detailed by your building designer.

Self-closing extractor fans can provide ventilation when needed but close to reduce unwanted air leakage.

Another good option for very well sealed homes is a "Heat Recovery System" which works by using the heat from extracted air to warm cool external air being drawn into the house. A heat recovery system can also reduce condensation problems and improve indoor air quality as it replaces stale moist air inside the house with fresh air from outside. Heat recovery systems should always be designed by a specialist supplier or installer who can advise on a system suitable for your home.

My Tips for a Passive House Design in Tasmania

Keep your living areas on the north side of the house and bedrooms on the south.

Use lots of north facing windows protected by an eave or awning (a good building designer should be able to calculate the optimal size of your eaves or awnings)

Reduce the size of east, west and south facing windows

Protect any east or west facing windows with a larger eave, verandah or awning.

Use concrete or brickwork internally for thermal mass when optimal window orientations have been used. Concrete slabs should include under slab insulation as the ground temperatures in Tasmania are lower than a comfortable house temperature. Slabs that are built up above the ground and have exposed slab edges can also include slab edge insulation.

Include high levels of insulation in walls, ceilings and elevated floors.

Use double glazed windows, preferably with timber, UPVC or thermally broken frames.

Water Efficient House Design

Reducing a home's water use contributes to creating an energy efficient home. To create a highly water efficient home collecting and storing rainwater and reusing grey water should also be considered. This is great for the environment and can save money off your water bills.

Choosing water efficient appliances like choosing energy efficient appliances will help to reduce a home's water usage. Showers and toilets are two of the biggest water users in a home so choosing a water saving shower head and toilet will make a big difference. Efficient washing machines and dishwashers also offer a good amount of water savings and are well worth the investment. While some of these water saving features can easily be upgraded or added at any time, including these in your new homes specifications when it's built can save on making upgrades later.

Collecting and storing rainwater from your roof either for use in your home or garden is a great way to increase your homes water efficiency. Many rural properties throughout Tasmania do not have water mains and instead rely on rainwater harvesting for their homes water supplies. However even with mains water available collecting and storing rainwater can help reduce your water bills.

As Tasmania's annual rainfall is quite consistent throughout the year, large volumes of rainwater storage are not normally needed. For most two to four-person households around 30,0000 litres should be enough.

While many people use rainwater for drinking, showering and cooking it is important to ensure your system is properly maintained and regularly cleaned. Where mains water is also available it may be worth considering using rainwater for flushing toilets and in the laundry only. This makes cleaning your rainwater storage, gutters and roof less important, so you can do this less often. Flushing toilets and laundry use generally accounts for a large percentage of a home water use so using rainwater can save a considerable amount.

Another water saving measure that can be worth considering particularly if you're having large areas of lawn or gardens is to reuse grey water. Grey water is water other than sewerage that's been used in the house, often collected from showers, baths, hand basins and washing machines (but not toilets or the kitchen sink). This grey water can be treated in a specially designed treatment system or piped directly into the garden. If grey water is being used above ground or to water fruit trees, it's important to use a good treatment system to reduce the amount of chemicals and bacteria in the water.

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Energy Efficient House Design - Tasmania

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An energy efficient house is one which uses energy or power efficiently. Here in Tasmania we use a lot of energy keeping our houses warm in winter. This makes building an energy efficient house design in Tasmania vital if you want to reduce your carbon foot print, keep your power bills low and live in a comfortable house.

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https://www.jmybarchitects.com.au/thalia-haven/

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Morrison & Breytenbach Architects Hobart Tasmania

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Thalia Haven, East Coast Tasmania, is a luxury off-the-grid stone residence with electric power from photovoltaic cells, a wind turbine, and solar water heating panels that support the full range of modern cooking and washing appliances. Double-glazed, recycled, hardwood timber framed windows and doors capture the sun for passive solar space heating, while opening across a sweeping seascape to the mountains of Freycinet Peninsula and Schouten Island on the horizon. Supplementary gas heating is available, though this is seldom, if ever, required. Feature stone walls and functional stone fireplaces to the living room and kitchen/dining spaces provide character and solidity, and imbue added ambience to the interiors. Water supply is rainwater harvested from the roofs and stored in an underground tank. The stone walls and dark limestone flooring are well insulated and provide thermal mass for heat retention and moderation of interior temperatures.

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Thalia Haven, East Coast Tasmania | Morrison & Breytenbach Architects Hobart Tasmania

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Thalia Haven, East Coast Tasmania, is a luxury off-the-grid stone residence with electric power from photovoltaic cells, a wind turbine, and solar water heating panels that support the full range of modern cooking and washing appliances.

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https://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/features/list/japanese-architecture-and-buildings

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Contemporary Japanese architecture is a mixture of traditional design practices and modern Western aesthetics. Universally celebrated, people around the world have embraced the Japanese aesthetic, hoping to capture a piece of it in their homes.

Let's take a look at some of the most common elements of Japanese architecture, and some of Japan's most celebrated buildings and architects.

The origins of Japanese architecture

Prior to the 1 st century B.C.E., Japanese homes looked much like any other home across the world, consisting mainly of wood with thatched roofs and earthen floors. Built before the 6 th century, some of Japan's first shrines looked similar to ancient storehouses or homes. It wasn't until the 7 th century that Japanese architecture developed its own distinct style, having been heavily influenced by other Asian nations.

It was around this period that wood emerged as a preferred building material for Japanese architecture. This is due to a lack of stone available at the time due to volcanic activity, as well as wood's proven resistance to earthquakes.

"Traditional Japanese architecture" typically refers to buildings built during the Edo period, which was during the 17 th to mid-19 th centuries. Japanese Medieval architecture was somewhat comparable to Medieval European architecture at the time due to the prevalence of castles, but it was much simpler than its European counterpart. Following this period, Japanese architecture started to adopt more Western influences.

For more information about the origins of Japanese architecture, you can watch KOCHUU, an award-winning film discussing historical Japanese buildings and the various influences that have made Japanese architecture what it is today.

Common features in traditional Japanese architecture
Wood
As mentioned, wood has traditionally been the preferred building material in Japanese architecture. In many of the older Japanese houses (as well as in some of the newer buildings) wood was left unpainted and used in its natural form in an appreciation of the grain.
Screens and sliding doors

Image credit: propertyinvestmentjapan.com

Movable screens (shoji) and sliding doors (fusuma) were used in many old Japanese houses. The screens were typically made from paper, to allow light and shadows to pass through.
Genken

Image credit: nisekoprojects.com

Common in traditional and contemporary Japanese houses, Genken refers to a small part of the floor plan where there is a sunken space between the front door and the rest of the house. This is where shoes are placed before entering.
Verandas
Older Japanese houses will usually have a wooden veranda (called an engawa) that runs around the outside of the house.
Nature
Connection to nature has always been an important feature of Japanese architecture. This can be attributed to Japan's Shinto and Buddhist beliefs, which have had a significant influence on its architecture. This can be clearly seen in the focus on natural light and the use of raw wood as a building material, both on the exterior and in the interior.

Famous contemporary Japanese architects
Tadao Ando
Born in 1941, Ando is considered one of Japan's best architects, despite having no formal training in architecture. His work is best-known for the creative use of natural light and concrete, as well as strong homage to the natural landscape. Some of his best-known buildings are the Asia Museum of Modern Art and the Langen Foundation in Germany.

Image credit: de.fiylo.com
Ryue Nishizawa
Tokyo-based architect Ryue Nishizawa was born in 1966, and became the youngest winner of the Pritzker Prize in 2010. He founded Tezuka Architects with his wife Yui Tezuka in 2009, and is best known for creations such as the Towada Art Centre, Teshima Art Museum and the Funabashi apartment building.
Kengo Kuma Image credit: caddetails.com
Born in 1954, Kengo Kuma is known for his innovative use of materials and technological advancements in his designs. An architect and professor at the Graduate School of Architecture at the University of Tokyo, his goal is to reinterpret traditional Japanese architecture for the 21 st century. One of his best-known buildings is the GC Prostho Museum Research Center in Kasugai, Japan, which features an impressive system of interlocking wooden elements.

Photography by Daici Ano
Yakushi-Ji Temple, Nishinokyo - Image credit: en.japantravel.com built by Emperor Tenmu in 680 A.D.
Famous Japanese buildings - old and new
Image credit: whc.unesco.org
This historical temple is one of the most famous imperial and ancient Buddhist temples in Japan. Once one of the Seven Great Temples of Nanto, the temple is now the headquarters of the Hosso school of Japanese Buddhism. Part of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara", the temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Himeji Castle, Himeji - built by Akamatsu Norimura in 1333, rebuilt by Akamatsu Sadanori in 1349
Image credit: imgur.com
The largest and most-visited castle in Japan, Himeji Castle is considered the finest surviving example of prototypical Japanese castle architecture. The castle includes a network of 83 rooms with advanced defensive systems from the feudal period. It was registered in 1993 as one of Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Photography by Noda Gankohsha
Nakagin Capsule Tower, Tokyo - designed by Kisho Kurokawa, completed in 1972

Nakagin Capsule Tower is a mixed-use residentail and office tower that is considered a rare example of Japanese Metabolism, an architectural movement borne of Japan's postwar cultural resurgence. At the time it was built, it was also the world's first example of capsule architecture built for permanent, practical use.

Hoki Museum, Chiba - designed by Nikken Sekkei, completed in 2010

The Hoki Miseum is Japan's first museum dedicated to Realist painting. Its collections include around 480 works from emerging artists to masters of art.
Photography by Scott Burrows
Japanese architecture around the world

Japanese architecture is a popular style world-wide, considered synonymous with zen, tranquility and simplicity. This includes Australia, where an increasing amount of residential architecture is including Japanese elements.

West End House, located in inner-city Brisbane, is a prime example of the uptake of Japanese architecture in Australia.

Japanese-Australian architect Koichi Takada also continues to alter our skylines, bringing a Japanese feel to some of our new developments rather than focusing on a particular "look". This can be seen in Mastery, currently under construction in Waterloo, where there is a focus on human connection and the use of natural materials such as timber and stone.

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Japanese Architecture - Buildings & Houses from Japan | Architecture & Design

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Contemporary Japanese architecture is a mixture of traditional design practices and modern Western aesthetics. Universally celebrated, people around the world have embraced the Japanese aesthetic, hoping to capture a piece of it in their homes. Let's take a look at some of the most common elements of Japanese architecture, and some of Japan's most celebrated buildings and architects.

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The Design Files | Australia's most popular design blog.

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Architecture

The Australian Institute of Architects last week announced the winners of the Tasmanian Architecture Awards, which recognises excellence and achievements in public, residential, education and commercial architecture, as well as sustainable innovation in the field.

The rugged beauty of the Tasmanian landscape never fails to excite designers from around the country. And this year's crop of finalists is no exception!

Today we take a tour through the winners of the Residential Architecture - Houses (New) and Residential Architecture - Houses (Alterations + Additions) categories.

From urban residences to isolated riverside retreats, the projects that won big in the Tasmanian Architecture Awards are constantly responding to their environment. Albeit in different ways!

The Lower Jordan Hill Road house by Taylor + Hinds Architects received the Edith Emery Award for Residential Architecture (Alterations + Additions) . Archier and Bence Mulcahy received category awards for their Ryde Street House and Hampden Road project respectively, while Crump Architects and Cumulus Studio took out commendations.

Though no award was recognised for the Residential Architecture category for completely new houses, the panel recognised two projects for commendations. The Lake House by Biotope Architecture + Interiors put a contemporary spin on traditional settlement-era architecture. The single-storey longhouse takes its shape and material palette from bluestone Hobart cottages to create a striking lakeside homestead surrounded by bushland. In addition, the Stringybark Residence by JAWS Architects is reminiscent of the Los Angeles Case Study houses, but with a Tasmanian twist! Set firmly in the Bonnet Hill wilderness the low, geometric house makes exciting use of timber at every opportunity.

In addition to the residential categories, Bence Mulcahy took out the Barry McNeill Award for Sustainable Architecture, and Pippa Jensen of Cumulus Studio was awarded the Emerging Architect Prize.

Congratulations to the winners!
For details, hover your cursor over the above images of projects shortlisted in the Residential Architecture - Houses (New) and Residential Architecture -Houses (Alterations and Additions) categories. You can see the full awards shortlist here.

This Week

In Good Company and Banded Together bring furnishings and fashion under one roof, with a new combined concept store in Armadale!

A restrained renovation for a 1960's home in Frankston South by MRTN Architects.

Sick of your house? Four design experts share their super easy, low cost ideas to add a little pizzazz to your interiors!

Similar Stories

Photographer Kara Rosenlund shares her trip to Tasmania's elusive Satellite Island.

This Week

With a footprint of 28sqm, there was no room for error in the restoration of this tiny 1900s workers cottage.

From painters and weavers to textile artists and multidisciplinary creatives, these are the local artists to start collecting now.

Valerie Vigor and Giorgia Bel present a wonderful pas de deux of ceramics and paint in their exhibition, Love Story.

Painters Bec Smith and Charlotte Swiden join forces for an exhibition exploring colour, form and narrative - opening tomorrow at No Vacancy

Similar Stories

Photographer Kara Rosenlund shares her trip to Tasmania's elusive Satellite Island.

The Design Files acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands on which we work, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

First Nations artists, designers, makers and creative business owners are encouraged to submit their projects for coverage on The Design Files - we would love to hear from you.

Please email us here.

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The Best Tasmanian Architecture Projects Declared!

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The Australian Institute of Architects last week announced the winners of the Tasmanian Architecture Awards, which recognises excellence and achievements in public, residential, education and commercial architecture, as well as sustainable innovation in the field. The rugged beauty of the Tasmanian landscape never fails to excite designers from around the country.

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Text description provided by the architects. In Essen (Germany) the last two blocks of a homeless shelter were handed over to the users in 2018. The three clearly structured, parallel buildings characterised by exposed concrete and sky-blue glazed bricks are the result of an invitation to tender issued by the City of Essen.

What was sought were new buildings for a homeless shelter for 119 people, as well as office space for 2 social workers and 2 housing administrators. RKW Architektur + won the public tender with its modular concept. Despite or precisely because of the tight budget, the architects were able to deliver a complex of noticeable architectural quality.

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Shelter for the Homeless / RKW Architektur +

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Text description provided by the architects. In Essen (Germany) the last two blocks of a homeless shelter were handed over to the users in 2018. The three clearly structured, parallel buildings characterised by exposed concrete and sky-blue glazed bricks are the result of an invitation to tender issued by the City of Essen.

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Self Sufficient property in Southern Tasmania

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Self Sufficient property in Southern Tasmania

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Going off the grid in preparation for retirement is a dream for many and a reality for Peter and Robyn Tuft who run their house and car from a solar and micro-hydro power system.

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Selling Sunset has become a Netflix phenomenon leaving fans hungry for more makeover shows.

So while we await another season of the glamorous programme, Metro.co.uk has put together a list of series that will give you that property porn fix.

Whether it be Beverley Hills you're looking for, or a more attainable home in the Yorkshire Dales, we've got every aspect of house hunting and transformations covered.

And we've even thrown in some tiny spaces to show just what can be achieved when you put you mind to renovating.

So sit back, relax and press play on some of the best property shows out there.

Who knows, you might even be inspired to pull out a paintbrush.

Selling Sunset

The Netflix reality show has taken subscribers by storm as they were treated to whole load of Los Angeles property eye-candy.

But while the location might be glamorous and glitzy as hell, the real estate is the complete opposite.

With cutthroat agents and wide-eyed newcomers trying to make their mark on the industry, viewers are indulged in all the drama - and they're not complaining one bit.

Stay Here

If you're looking for a property makeover show, then you've come to the right place.

Designer Genevieve Gorder is joined by real estate expert Peter Lorimer as they show their clients how to transform their houses into the perfect holiday rentals.

Whether that be somewhere for a romantic getaway or a family retreat, Stay Here has you covered.

Million Dollar Listing

Up there will Selling Sunset, Million Dollar Listing takes viewers to some of the most glamorous LA properties.

From Beverley Hills to Malibu we get to see inside the houses of the rich and famous.

And if it take your fancy, there's a whole 11 seasons to get your teeth stuck into over on Amazon Prime.

Tiny House Nation

Something a little different, and just as impressive if not more so than the grand builds in LA.

Host John Weisbarth and renovation expert Zack Giffin take viewers across America where they find some of the smallest properties on the market.

And while looking inside the tiny spaces, the duo help those living there transform them into homes.

The Apartment

Interior design might be at the heart of the show, but this is masked by some healthy competition as contestants battle it out for a luxury apartment or A cash prize of $100,000.

Throughout the series, the competitors have to design and decorate a room each, per episode, showing off their renovation skills.

Sass, drama and stunning designs? It's a show that ticks all the boxes.

Homes Under The Hammer

While looking at multimillion-pound mansions is good for the eye, sometimes it's nice to watch something a little more attainable.

And Homes Under The Hammer is just that presenters Martin Roberts, Dion Dublin and Martel Maxwell show us hundreds of auctioned off properties all set for a makeover.

From derelict spaces to abandoned banks, and three-story houses that get transformed into flats - there really is something for everyone.

Grand Designs

Presented by designer Kevin McCloud, viewers get taken on a transformative journey seeing property owners build their vision of a dream home.

Each design often features elaborate structures and unusual settings including the likes of a cliff edge - or on top of a hill.

It's enough to send your imagination wild and inspire you to kickstart your own renovation projects, honestly, you'll be whipping out a paintbrush in no time.

Old House New Home

Doing exactly what it says on the tin, architect George Clarke helps homeowners turn their period properties into spaces fit for the modern day.

While maintaining the history of the house, the presenter tackles two properties on each show from the same era including the likes of Victorian, Gothic and even Georgian structures.

And viewers have been left stunned by some of the results seeing contemporary designs slotted between walls that are hundreds of years old.
Got a story?
If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page - we'd love to hear from you.

MORE : Peaky Blinders season 6: Was Winston Churchill behind the assassination ambush?

MORE : Terry Crews admits Brooklyn Nine-Nine will be influenced by ongoing backlash against police brutality

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Selling Sunset to Grand Designs: The best shows to get your property porn fix

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Selling Sunset has become a Netflix phenomenon leaving fans hungry for more makeover shows. So while we await another season of the glamorous programme, Metro.co.uk has put together a list of series that will give you that property porn fix.

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You'd expect the winner of the Housing Industry Association's most prestigious annual award, to be outstanding in some way, after all the home is up against luxury homes by some of the country's most awarded builders, this home however by Sydney's Sammut Developments, winner of the HIA-CSR Australian Home of the Year 2016 is outstanding in every way

Occupying four lots on the foreshore of Burraneer Bay with 3,950m of roofed area set over six levels, just the sheer scale of this home is quite extraordinary.

Add to that the extensive list of exceptional amenities that include 7 bedrooms, 2 separate guest pavilions, 20 bathrooms, 6 kitchens, a commercial grade bar and bowling alley, a gymnasium, a cellar, an underground tunnel and music room all built on a sloping block to exacting and luxurious specifications and you start to get a very clear picture of how truly deserving this home is of it title.

Named after the winding feature staircase at the entry of the home constructed with millimeter precision to resemble a Nautilus shell, this home was destined to be a winner from the outset. With grand ideas for a resort style home, the owner approached Sammut Developments proclaiming he'd like to build 'Australia's best home', there commenced a close collaboration between owner and builder that extended over several years to see his dreams realised in this spectacular residence.

In order to minimise the profile of the home the six tiered structure has been built into the sloping site. In fact almost half of the home sits below actual ground level. This required a total of 6500 cubic meters to be excavated (equivalent to 3 ½ Olympic size swimming pools), part of which was also for the 8m deep 15m long tunnel that allows the beach to be accessed without the need to descend even one stair.

The shell of the home has been constructed with concrete; over 2300 cubic meters in total were used, reinforced by 300 tonnes of steel. A home of this magnitude might seem ostentatious however the owner's vision was for a resort style residence that could be shared and enjoyed with family and friends, where guests were welcome to stay, and feel at home and in fact contained within the enormous structure are four separate living quarters.

Each of the six levels leads to a terrace which at the lowest is via a 13m glass door that totally opens the home up to the outside and the beautifully landscaped gardens. Incredible feats of engineering can be seen in many of the concrete awnings that cantilever out over the terraces, some up to five meters wide and also fitted with pergola systems and skylights.

Extensive glazing floods the home with natural light however despite this and the expansiveness of the home it has a very warm and inviting ambience, something that was commented on by HIA judges. This can be credited to both a well thought out floor plan and an abundance of quality natural materials such as luxurious timbers and stone that create an earthiness and warmth. Recycled materials sourced by the owner himself have also been used in various areas of the property including reclaimed bricks used on the walls of both the bowling alley and tunnel adding a rustic quality to both.
Without doubt the home is fully equipped for entertaining with two bars a wine tasting room and Teppanyaki kitchen plus parking for twenty cars.
This extraordinary home has so many outstanding features that they're impossible to outline, however many are said to be firsts for a residential property within Australia such as the three lifts, and 4.2m high Swiss made doors that disappear into the wall cavities.

It's not the size or the unprecedented inclusions however that saw this home recognised with one of the building industry's highest accolades it was ..... "the level of detail and mirror-perfect finish, delivered spot-on every time over the vast amount of rooms..." that most impressed the judges.

A total of 750 tradespeople worked on Nautilus over the duration of the project with over 100 individual tradespeople on site at one time on many occasions, requiring expert coordination by the Sammut team. Sammut carried out all the landscaping work which included the restoration of the heritage listed boat shed and the demolition of a harbor pool to create the beach.

Over 6000 plants were installed, in the stunning terraced gardens many of which were mature trees, including a 3.5-tonne magnolia tree that was craned in.
The success of the project is credited as a collaborative effort between the owner who had a passion to see this incredible home come to life, the architect who helped make it work and the builder.
Considering the enormity of the scope of work, the delivery of a home of this size and of this caliber in just three years is nothing short of remarkable a true testament to the skill and experience of this award winning team.

This outstanding home is just one of the unique custom homes featured in our 2017 edition of Sydney Custom Homes magazine.

See more homes from Sydney Custom Builder Sammut Developments. www.sammutdevelopments.com.au

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Is this Home Australia's Ultimate Millionaire's Playground?

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You'd expect the winner of the Housing Industry Association's most prestigious annual award, to be outstanding in some way, after all the home is up against luxury homes by some of the country's most awarded builders, this home however by Sydney's Sammut Developments, winner of the HIA-CSR Australian Home of the Year 2016 is outstanding in every way Occupying four lots on the foreshore of Burraneer Bay with 3,950m of roofed area set over six levels, just the sheer scale of this home is quite extraordinary.

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In 2006 Kerry Vince Builders scooped the HIA / CSR Housing Awards with 3 awards for a home in Primrose Sands.

HOUSE OF THE YEAR
CUSTOM BUILT PROJECT OF THE YEAR
CUSTOM BUILT HOME OVER $400,000

The home is sited on top of Sugarloaf Hill and is unique in every way, with panoramic views to Frederick Henry Bay, Cremorne and Bruny Island.

The location posed a paradox; sited on a hill but with a very nautical outlook. The architect had chosen to respond with a nautically inspired series of sails that act as a dividing walls with glass infill between.

Every wall in the house bar two are curved, with some of the curved fins rising above and penetrating through the roof line, creating a stunning effect.

Although the house faces south, its environmentally friendly design, double glazed windows and insulating rated foam rendered design allows it to retain heat efficiently.

Filed Under: Residential

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Sugarloaf Hill, Primrose Sands - Kerry Vince - Builder and Earthmoving

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In 2006 Kerry Vince Builders scooped the HIA / CSR Housing Awards with 3 awards for a home in Primrose Sands. HOUSE OF THE YEAR CUSTOM BUILT PROJECT OF THE YEAR CUSTOM BUILT HOME OVER $400,000 The home is sited on top of Sugarloaf Hill and is unique in every way, with panoramic views to ...

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The Local Project - Architecture and Design of Australia and New Zealand

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The Local Project is a publication, blog and magazine showcasing the best product design, interior design and architecture of Australia and New Zealand.

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Hotel Kakslauttanen offers one of the best views of the Aurora Borealis (known as polar lights). It is located in the Finnish part of Lapland, near Finland's Urho Kekkonen National Park. It is far away from big cities, far away from their smog and pollution, so you can see millions of stars from the roof of your glass igloo. This along with the view of Aurora Borealis...

[Image Source: Hotel Kakslauttanen]

Each glass igloo is made generally of thermal glass walls and ceilings, that insulate the interior to keep it safe from the northern cold. The glass also contains a frost preventative, maintaining crystal clear panoramic views even when temperatures outside drop to -22 degrees Fahrenheit. Designed for two people, the igloos are small enough to be efficiently heated without consuming too much energy.

[Image Source: Hotel Kakslauttanen]

Aurora Borealis is a result from the impact between charged particles released from the sun and the Earth's atmosphere particles. The resulting burst of colored light can last from less than a second to nearly two minutes. The phenomenon has clearest view during the winter months at night. However, the lights are visible from August to April.

[Image Source: Hotel Kakslauttanen]

The main hotel also includes the world's largest smoke sauna, restaurant, an ice bar and snow chapel that is re-built every winter. For the more adventurous, the hotel also offers lodging in a dozen of traditional igloos made of ice. These ice houses have an internal temperature of only 21 degrees fahrenheit, so you better pack warm!

[Image Source: Hotel Kakslauttanen]

[Image Source: Hotel Kakslauttanen]

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Hotel Kakslauttanen offers one of the best views of the Aurora Borealis (known as polar lights). It is located in the Finnish part of Lapland, near Finland's Urho Kekkonen National Park. It is far away from big cities, far away from their smog and pollution, so you can see millions of stars from the roof of your glass igloo.

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Amelia - World's Most Extraordinary Homes

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Amelia - World's Most Extraordinary Homes

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When it comes to creating extraordinary houses, the focus is often placed on the ingenuity of the building itself, but for The World's Most Extraordinary Homes, it is the successful fusion of design and location that sets them apart.

The first series steps inside houses that challenge the possibilities of their surroundings, providing an immersive glimpse into what life is really like behind the most unique of doors. From the outset, it goes beyond the process of simply designing and building a one-of-a-kind home. For starters, the focus is on life after the build, when the home is at its best - lived-in and well established. There's also no fear of ending an episode with an incomplete project or catastrophic budget blow-out: money is no object here.

Take, for instance, the 747 Wing House, which repurposed the wings and tail fins of a decommissioned Boeing 747 to create the framework for a sustainable home, high in the Santa Monica Mountains above Malibu. Not only did the parts of the aircraft have to be helicoptered in to reach such an extreme location, but the home itself required the permission of 17 government agencies for fear it could be mistaken for a downed aircraft. The result? An award-winning home with unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean that was well worth the effort.

Later, the episode travels a little closer to home on the shores of Lake Wanaka in New Zealand, to Te Kaitaka, a cedar-covered origami-inspired home that blends seamlessly with the deep valleys of the region.

Though these buildings are literally a world apart, each episode is themed around a particular landscape, from mountain ranges to forests, by the sea and even underground, celebrating the effortless sense of harmony between house and environment.

The BBC series' popularity is no doubt driven by the passion of its hosts, actress and presenter Caroline Quentin ( Men Behaving Badly, Jonathan Creek) and award-winning architect Piers Taylor, a duo that are the perfect combination of enthusiasm and expertise, as they explore 16 properties over the series' four hour-long episodes. Quentin's excitement is particularly infectious; she's like any one of us who, given the chance, would jump up and down at the sight of a pool in mid-air.

The two do so much more than just visit incredible properties. Instead, they put both form and function to the test, lucky enough to be handed the keys and invited to stay overnight at each of the homes, immersing themselves in the lifestyle of those lucky enough to call them their own.

The World's Most Extraordinary Homes combines the beauty and awe of travel with all the fun and excitement of life in the most beautiful homes in the world. Put simply, it's the kind of blissful escapism that never gets old and will have you impatient for next week's adventure.
The World's Most Extraordinary Homes premieres on SBS Friday 9 October at 8:30pm, with episodes airing over four weeks.

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It's all about location, location, location in 'The World's Most Extraordinary Homes'

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When it comes to creating extraordinary houses, the focus is often placed on the ingenuity of the building itself, but for The World's Most Extraordinary Homes, it is the successful fusion of design and location that sets them apart.

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There are projects in one's career that are seminal and ultimately influential in the long term, even if this was completely unknown and unthought-of at the time.

The Reynolds Residence (see Houses 53) is a project that has affected so many lives in different ways; it has resonated with our practice and continues to influence our thinking. The lessons have now been reflected on in an ongoing visual assessment of the residence, discussions with the owners, in my RMIT University master's research and with testing in more recent projects. Ideas have translated from residential to public projects and have been released into a broader community for different cultures and ages.

The clients for the Reynolds Residence commissioned us after a recommendation from a friend. The previous owner of the Iwan Iwanoff house and studio, artist Julie Hobbs, had become a friend of mine through my visits to the house to study Iwanoff's work. The son of a friend of Julie's sought advice from her on finding a young practice that was open enough to engage with the family's brief for an extension to their 1930s brick bungalow. Adam Reynolds and his parents subsequently commissioned us for the design of their home.

Image: Shannon McGrath

It was timely and coincided with the creation of Iredale Pedersen Hook's practices in Perth and Melbourne. It also coincided with our first public commission - the Perth Zoo orangutan enclosure - and with the design of a house for my parents (Dawesville Residence), a low-budget future place of retirement in a location popular for getaways.

The design of the Dawesville Residence and the Reynolds Residence could not be more contrasting; a deep sense of duality permeates, demonstrating a sense of flexibility, a sense of designing with the left- and right-hand sides of the brain. This flexibility of method and output has continually challenged those seeking to identify an Iredale Pedersen Hook "house signature." The desire to explore each project within its individual parameters and to actively eliminate preconceptions results in diverse and project-specific solutions, something that is embraced by the client.

The Reynolds Residence represents joyful freedom, a naivety that we still try to capture today, the youthful sense of pursuing an untested path. I drew the first sketches on the back of a Ken and Barbie postcard during a study tour of Alvar Aalto's work in Finland. These were met with humour and excitement by Finn Pedersen and Martyn Hook. The next sketches attempted to maintain the sense of fabricated freedom by denying the site boundaries; when applied to the site, the sketches ended in a neighbour's garden.

We have learnt that the influence on and of others is critical. While the Reynolds Residence was being constructed, Adam Reynolds "camped" on site. He went on to study architecture and graduated with high distinction. And we still work with the same building company that we engaged for this project. We developed an open exchange of ideas - the use of recycled rough-sawn lapped jarrah cladding on the north facade was a cost-saving suggestion by the builder. We immediately thought of the connection to the old lapped jarrah boundary fences in the neighbourhood. Others may suggest a link to Alvar Aalto's own house in Helsinki or Hugo Häring's Cowshed on Gut Garkau farm in Germany, connections that we are happy to acknowledge.

Over time the house has demonstrated a level of flexibility of use, from playground to wedding reception and holiday house. This is a flexibility that we have actively pursued in subsequent projects, a combination of specific interiority (a term used by Florian Beigel in the book Time Architecture to describe the work of Hans Scharoun) and dynamic engagement. It is the creation of a place that captures and reframes the world around it, holding it in a continual sense of dynamic equilibrium.

Image: Shannon McGrath

Recent projects continue these qualities. At an aged-care centre in Western Australia, a unique solution for a flood-prone site was found by creating a new typology out of those very parameters. A new house in Perth's Mosman Park continues the Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde quality of passive and active, rational and irrational - a spatial juxtaposition aiming to animate experience. It continues the material sensibility of the Reynolds Residence, seeking a rawness and tactility that will gracefully weather in time.

In 2002 the retired academic and architectural historian Duncan Richards predicted the influence of this project on the evolution of the practice. Duncan identified another aspect that is also embedded in recent work: "One quality of this project is mentioned with a feeling of slight embarrassment, but it cannot be ignored. It seems to promote a feeling of irrational joyousness rarely found when exploring buildings." Fifteen years later we continue to search for this sensibility, which was produced with educated naivety and youthful enthusiasm.

House of longevity: K House

Elegant and unpretentious, this new home in Kiama is at once a sanctuary and a fortress, a robust home braced to endure the often volatile ...

Verdant sanctuary: Earl Parade Residence

In coastal Brisbane, a new house orients family life around a verdant courtyard sanctuary, posing an unexpected response to the conventions of suburban housing.

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There are projects in one's career that are seminal and ultimately influential in the long term, even if this was completely unknown and unthought-of at the time. The Reynolds Residence (see Houses 53) is a project that has affected so many lives in different ways; it has resonated with our practice and continues to influence our thinking.

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Project Zero is a single residential dwelling located in suburban Brisbane. The design is the result of the clients desire[...]

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The world’s most influential architecture, interiors and design magazine

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If you'll be in Wales this summer you can actually stay in one of these eight unusual tiny houses; if you live in the UK you can watch them on the Channel 4 series Cabins in the Wild; if you're somewhere else altogether the pictures below will give you an idea what the Epic Retreats project is all about. Each cabin was built by a different architect, one of the winners of a design competition calling for mobile glamping accommodation based on Welsh mythology and costing less than £11,000 ($14,000). They'll feature in the country's Year of Legends celebration and will be spending June in Snowdonia before relocating to the Llŷn Peninsula for July-September. There are only about 200 total bookings to be had during that period, but as of this writing there's still some availability for every one of the houses; go here to check. And don't worry - diverse and inexpensive as they are, they all have beds bathrooms and woodstoves inside!

The Animated Forest by Francis & Arnett. The big circle is actually a sliding door.

The Black Hat by the Rural Office for Architecture. Welsh children traditionally sport similar tops on St David's Day.

The Dragon's Eye, by Carwyn Lloyd Jones, refers to the ancient Welsh national symbol.

The Little Dragon, by Barton Willmore Architects, makes the same allusion with cedar 'scales' and stilt 'claws'.

Miner's Legend, by How About Studio, adds a splash of color to the lineup.

Sleep under the stars on a certain Welsh mountain and you'll wake as a poet - or a madman. The SkyHut, by Waind Gohil + Potter Architects, will help you on your way.

Trias's Slate Cabin is pure (New South) Wales - the firm is based in Sidney, Australia.

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If you'll be in Wales this summer you can actually stay in one of these eight unusual tiny houses; if you live in the UK you can watch them on the Channel 4 series Cabins in the Wild; if you're somewhere else altogether the pictures below will give you an idea what the Epic Retreats project is all about.

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Arguably, kitchens are spaces in which the interplay of elements establishes a delicate balance in their composition; design, materials, and fittings, all of which collaboratively shape the interior environment. It is, therefore, not surprising that they often become the focus of ongoing discussions. The cultural and utilitarian role of kitchens in our lives is so important that their influence transcends mere architecture, becoming an object of artistic and historical exploration. In this way, both kitchens and the elements that comprise them have evolved and changed in style-from the robust kitchens of the 19th century to the innovations that originated in the Frankfurt kitchen in the 20th century.

The domestic landscape can transform on a daily basis, and fittings are no exception as they adapt to changing stylistic influences and needs. Today, kitchens incorporate both, traditional and contemporary elements within the same space, creating a language that connects and seamlessly transitions between these influences, thereby enhancing one another. In this context, Dornbracht has conceived VAIA, a series of fittings developed by Sieger Design, which fuses tradition and modernity in contemporary kitchens through fine lines, stylized silhouettes, and flowing transitions.

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ArchDaily | Broadcasting Architecture Worldwide

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ArchDaily, Broadcasting Architecture Worldwide: Architecture news, competitions and projects updated every hour for the architecture professional

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The Local Project - Architecture and Design of Australia and New Zealand

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The Local Project is a publication, blog and magazine showcasing the best product design, interior design and architecture of Australia and New Zealand.

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"Suspended 40 meters above Fairhaven Beach, the Pole House is one of Australia's most iconic homes. Recently renovated, The Pole House now adds a luxurious modern setting to a holiday experience like no other. Whilst carefully planned and crafted, The Pole House is not about accommodation, nor is it about facilities or amenities, of which it has many, The Pole House is about the experience.

The Pole House at Fairhaven was built by Frank Dixon and instantly became a landmark, a manmade natural attraction, a concrete apostle, a sentinel guarding the eastern gate to The Great Ocean Road. It was built by the ancients in the seventies, a time before computers and ring roads when the coast was a rumor, and it became a totem in a far place.

Children in cars heading down the coast held competitions to see who could spot it first. It became such a shared part of the landscape people stopped to take photos, and as you stand on its balcony with a drink in your hand people wave from passing cars and toot their horns as if you hold some honorary position. Its current owners call this being anonymously famous.

The house has just been redesigned by Franco Fiorentini from F2 Architecture and is a brilliant new statue on an already famous pedestal. The house is a blaze of architectural brio. The taps have lights hidden in their mouths shining down along the bubbling paths of falling water, and alongside each light a diode, so when the water is cold it is blue, as the temperature rises to warm it turns purple and by the time the water is hot it is bright red. The couches recline and stretch at button-press. Blinds covering two whole walls rise at the press of another button, uncovering half the world. Wave your hand near a set of light switches and they glow and tell you whats on and whats not. The main room curves around a central bathroom pod clad in burnt ash panels. In front of the floor-to-ceiling window a suspended fireplace hangs from its own chimney essentially a fire burning in a cold sea. The floor is a dark stone the Medicis might have trod.

For all this, architectural features really have no significant place in the wonder of this house. Its defining and beguiling feature is that the sea and sky are in the room. The rumbling surf and two hundred degrees of ocean with a vast superstructure of cloud overhead. The mood of the house is set by the mood of these elements. Subservient to a constantly changing pageant of light, cloud, wave and color.

Dramatic reefs of fire to the west as the sun goes down, while in the East saturated purples fall to night. The closer you are to the sky the more its intricacies are laid bare. You soon understand this room might hold a thousand different sunsets. Another thousand dawns. In here, as part of the sea and sky, each day will be an entity set apart from those before and to come.

The land is a lesser, peripheral, presence. But you could study it all day from up here. Fifty kilometres of coast. From the Split Point Lighthouse at Aireys Inlet the Great Ocean Road rides a rollercoaster of hills through the forests of The Otways to and beyond Lorne. The hills ripple and fold with the passing sun." Great Ocean Road Holidays

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POLE HOUSE - Fairhaven, VIC, Australia - PlansMatter

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"Suspended 40 meters above Fairhaven Beach, the Pole House is one of Australia's most iconic homes. Recently renovated, The Pole House now adds a luxurious modern setting to a holiday experience like no other. Whilst carefully planned and crafted, The Pole House is not about accommodation, nor is it about facilities or amenities, of which it has many, The Pole House is about the experience.

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2019 National Architecture Awards Winners - Australian Institute of Architects

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The Australian Institute of Architects is the peak body for the architectural profession, representing 12,000 members in professional practice and education. It has national and state offices across Australia. It provides access to Australian Standards, ABIC building industry contracts, publications, and HR and legal advice.

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Commercial | Educational | Multi-Residential | Residential | Tourism