Timberland

by Archaea

A connection sought between a glorious 65 year old English oak tree and the sandstone villa proudly standing guard toward the front of site provided for the insertion of an addition that would meaningfully connect the two. With the original residence turning its back on the rear private landscape, an open and receptive plan reaches out toward the oak tree, reintroducing it to the villa. Reinterpretation of the heritage villa’s strong symmetrical profile guides in defining the addition’s silhouette. Through combination of pitched rooflines, a sense of scale is achieved contrasting the flat roof over ancillaries which work together to frame and greet an extended garden to the tree. Direct sunlight is invited into a private courtyard as the addition breaks from the existing rear wall. The home office and living are gifted reclaimed northern aspect allowing cross flow ventilation, controlled sunlight and a welcome sense of breathing room through separation of built form.

Throughout, selected timber is freed, extending warmth and texture in its lining of soffits and walls both internally and externally. Blackbutt timber, burnished concrete, original red brickwork and a purposeful selection of colour establishes a palette that celebrates and highlights junctions, exposed transitions and uninterrupted texture. In the wet areas, dark glazed pennyround tiles accentuate softened corners. A sense of embrace and continuity is brought with intimacy and mood. Playful experimentation suitably describes Timberland’s evolution. Expressed through thoughtful detailing and craftsmanship, it is an addition that supports and enhances the family’s lives. The simplicity of the plan and raw materiality has enabled a gentle settling of the addition against the receiving villa in attempts to make the most of the site’s offerings.