Flipping the Expected – NR02 Scarborough by Whispering Smith and New Resident

As a rewriting of the traditional residential script, NR02 Scarborough focuses on embedding sustainability into all facets of the project. Whispering Smith, together with New Resident, reimagines an existing family home, enriching the existing charm and turning it into a carbon positive entity.

Whilst there is a popular focus on rebuilding from scratch, New Resident has emerged with a refreshing ethos. With the ambition to concentrate on sustainability and integrate adaptative re-use as a core element of the strategy, the company’s focus lies on reducing waste and the overall carbon footprint of their homes. Whispering Smith and New Resident collaborate on NR02 Scarborough to showcase an exemplar of that strategy in play. Set within its namesake suburb in Perth, the home is reworked to best embrace its location in the foothills and allow for a clear and shared relationship with the surrounding natural elements ¬– optimising orientation and allowing for openings to aid ventilation.

With the ambition to concentrate on sustainability and integrate adaptative re-use as a core element of the strategy, the company’s focus lies on reducing waste and the overall carbon footprint of their homes.

The home’s functionality was at the forefront of the design brief, integrating core principles in how the home responds to its occupants and the surrounding streetscape. Through a reconfiguration of the interior, natural ventilation, new openings and solar control all align with the intended functionality and lifestyle of the home. The result sees red brick combine with glazing and operable façade features to control the surrounding environment and climate.

Operating as a carbon positive home, the interior spaces convene through a considered approach. North-facing living areas ¬– together with skylights above and covered outdoor areas – allow for year-round occupation, bringing the ability to alter the home as needed through the seasons. As a celebration of the outdoor lifestyle of Perth, the flow between inside and out was key. Considered transitions encourage flow of movement and natural breezes to temper the interior climate. Whilst the exterior remains reminiscent of its origins, the interior becomes a quietened and calm retreat.

The home’s functionality was at the forefront of the design brief, integrating core principles in how the home responds to its occupants and the surrounding streetscape.

With an outward connection, NR02 Scarborough ensures an optimisation of the surrounds. The collaboration between Whispering Smith and New Resident ensures an energising and innovative outcome, ensuring continued longevity and engagement with the site to improve the experience of the home.