A Unified Approach – Hamilton Courtyard House by Anthrosite Architects
Bringing a sense of cohesion across the site, Hamilton Courtyard House connects two existing detached structures through the binding expression of the courtyard. Anthrosite Architects embeds a shared warmth between the two as the connective tissue takes inspiration from the nuances of each, proposing a united home.
Located among similar residential silhouettes, Hamilton Courtyard House defies the typical. Instead of expanding the home upward and outward, it looks within. Expressing the connection between heritage and contemporary becomes a key element of the experience of the home, expressed through a series of newly formed outdoor spaces. The generous allotment was home to two separate dwellings, both defined by their separate eras and materiality but void of connection. Instead of adding yet another formal imposition on the site, the latest iteration sees a series of connective gestures that bind the existing forms to one another. A focus on the surrounding natural elements remains a priority, with openings framing outward views and maximising movement across the site. Anthrosite Architects contains the new works to within a single story to continue the grounded narrative.
Behind a newly sculpted entry, Hamilton Courtyard House is realised by Built by Eli and increases both the offering of intimate and open spaces between the existing forms. The formation of a generous central space visually connects the site and its occupants while the existing sense of separation remains. The courtyard becomes a public sphere of its own, further reinforcing the supplementary retreat spaces as being private through their enclosure and separation. Entered through its own courtyard space, a tightened entrance to the house ushers in guests and sets the tone for the coming feeling within, seeing a focus on warmth and texture continue throughout.
Both forms previously prioritised the streetscape; through key maneuverers, that focus is instead turned towards the northern boundary, where increased openings connect to natural light and allow for passive solar gains. Whilst the neighbouring three-story structure posed an overlooking concern, careful formal realignments ensure the views into the site are deflected. A new addition in the form of a living wing features an open and connected dining and kitchen space that not only continues its engagement with the surrounds and existing forms but also enables engagement between occupants within the home. As a reflection of modern life, the communal and generous living wing inspires togetherness.
