St Kilda Side Yard House

by Andrew Child Architecture

The St Kilda Side Yard House by Andrew Child Architecture cleverly overcomes the disadvantages of a non-northern orientated backyard through the creation of a long side yard that accentuates the numerous benefits of natural light and passive design principles.

Initially the owners approached Andrew after purchasing a genuinely breathtaking solid brick Federation style Bungalow slighted with an overtly impractical extension to the rear. The extension, a relic of 90’s architecture, was dark and established no connection to the western orientated backyard of the property.

When Andrew Child first arrived on site they discovered the dysfunctional extension that was limiting the potential of the Federation home. The executive decision was made to reorientate the extension along the southern boundary and in the process create an extended, northern facing garden. The easier option would have been to simply renovate the extension, but Andrew was keen to use innovation to maximise potential.

The extension, a relic of 90’s architecture, was dark and established no connection to the western orientated backyard of the property.

Through the creation of the elongated side garden, as opposed to a traditional backyard, Andrew was able to expose the home to natural light and repositioned views along the north facing side. Indoor and outdoor living is combined seamlessly as the floor level addition spills effortlessly into the garden. A redesigned open plan kitchen, living and dining area is now filled with an abundance of natural light and pleasant garden views.

The St Kilda Side Yard House by Andrew Child Architecture cleverly overcomes the disadvantages of a non-northern orientated backyard.

A custom designed sunshade to the new long north elevation provides protection from harsh summer sun yet still allows maximum warming winter sun to permeate through and under to penetrate deep into the interior. This is combined perfectly with large windows designed to draw a cooling breeze throughout the home.

Initially the owners approached Andrew Child Architects after purchasing a genuinely breathtaking solid brick Federation style Bungalow slighted with an overtly impractical extension to the rear.

Whilst the new home is open plan in nature, Andrew has encouraged the creation of distinct spaces through the design. Subtle material changes at the floor level have defined the living areas throughout the extension. Ultimately the clever reorientation of the space works to maximise potential light into the home whilst generating a stronger relationship between indoor and outdoor living. The innovative reorientation process adopted by Andrew Child Architects has worked to improve the overall comfort of the home and has created a beautiful narrative between the living spaces and the garden. Overall the clients lifestyle has improved dramatically.

Overall the clients lifestyle has improved dramatically.