Kingsway Residence by Ewert Leaf

With over 15 years of design experience, Ewert Leaf blends German and Japanese architectural elements in Kingsway Residence. The dwelling not only achieves Passivhaus certification but also thoughtfully addresses the spiritual aspect of space.

In Perth’s Nedlands, houses are typically double-brick constructions spread across large sites. Kingsway Residence, however, stands apart. Designed as the family home of architect Siew-Fung Then, this three-level building is set on a subdivided block and crafted from cross-laminated timber. Its light, modest appearance belies its high performance. It is partly inspired by energy-efficient German architecture and meets the Passivhaus standard in terms of thermal insulation, superior windows, heat recovery ventilation, airtightness and the absence of thermal bridges. The design also incorporates distinctive Japanese elements, reflecting Then’s time living in the country and harmonising with the residence’s eco-friendly features.

Designed as the family home of architect Siew-Fung Then, this three-level building is set on a subdivided block and crafted from cross-laminated timber.

The construction of Kingsway Residence prioritises health and responsible building practices. By minimising the ground-floor footprint and leveraging the medium-density height requirement, Ewert Leaf maximises space for vegetation – only 35 per cent of the site is covered by the building. Cross-laminated timber enabled a rapid construction process, with the building constructed in 10 months and the house framed in less than a week. The material replaces plasterboard for floors, walls and ceilings. PVC-framed, triple-glazed windows and a warm edge spacer optimise thermal performance, while a 5.8-kilowatt solar panel system helps reduce energy consumption.

An engawa marks the first sign of Japanese influence. Stretching across the building’s facade, the wooden verandah offers a peaceful transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces. This feature, ambiguous in nature, exists as both part of the home and its surroundings, allowing residents to connect with the natural environment in a way they hadn’t before. Complementing the engawa is a full-height screen that shields the house from harsh sunlight.

Custom-built to exacting standards, Kingsway Residence exemplifies the best of energy-efficient design.

Inside, a multi-functional tea room flows from the living space and traditional genkan entryway. The tranquil area sits adjacent to a lush internal courtyard, designed to evoke memories of Malaysian Borneo and Switzerland, where Then and her husband were raised. Eventually, the courtyard and rear fence will be enveloped in Timor black bamboo, with the sound of wind rustling through the groves enhancing the peaceful residential experience.

Custom-built to exacting standards, Kingsway Residence exemplifies the best of energy-efficient design. Ewert Leaf has crafted the pieces necessary for a warm and cohesive family home.

Architecture and interior design by Ewert Leaf. Build by Evans Builds. Landscape design by Annghi Tran Landscape Architecture Studio.