Harriet’s House by SO: Architecture

Harriet’s House by SO: Architecture is an original 1830s cottage that has been elevated through a contemporary addition constructed using Brickworks products.

While not being a fan of the ocean, the client desired a home that felt like a beach house and approached SO: Architecture to restore their small heritage cottage. Through conversations, the client and architect came up with the final design of Harriet’s House, which saw the original heritage cottage retained and a new, distinct volume added. Located in Launceston, Tasmania, the home is surrounded by well-preserved and established heritage buildings.

Reflecting the owner’s background as an architectural historian and archivist, the space is calm, tranquil and inspires their creative writing practices.

Originally built in 1830, the cottage’s front four rooms were retained with many of the original elements, including the original timber sill that is approximately 200 years old. Furthermore, SO: Architecture took influence from the existing materiality of the cottage and carried similar tones and textures into the new addition. This area houses the living, dining and kitchen spaces and seamlessly connects to the rear garden. Reflecting the owner’s background as an architectural historian and archivist, the space is calm, tranquil and inspires their creative writing practices.

Partnering with Brickworks due to their support of the emerging architect contingent, SO: Architecture selected bricks due to their range of applications and durability. Two Brickworks products were used within the home. The Richmond brick, which is part of the Yarra range, was used across the floor and is locally made in Longford, Tasmania, while the lighter Ash brick from the Access range was used upon the majority of the exterior and interior walls of the new addition.

Partnering with Brickworks due to their support of the emerging architect contingent, SO: Architecture selected bricks due to their range of applications and durability.

A key driver for the home’s design was figuring out how to bring the landscape into the living spaces. Through discussions between architect, client and landscape designer, the solution was to create a 45-degree slope in the rear courtyard. Seen immediately from the front door, the courtyard provides a unique tapestry of greenery that is complemented by timber and brick. Coming together through material choices and architectural forms, Harriet’s House elevates the owner’s living experience.

Architecture by SO: Architecture. Build by Anstie Constructions. Landscape design by Playstreet. Engineering by Aldanmark Consulting Engineers. Bricks by Brickworks.