WINDSOR COURTYARD
The owners of the inner-city Melbourne apartment came to Canopy Architecture in search of a solution to make their existing courtyard more inviting and usable. The main issue with the existing courtyard was the large amount of gum leaves that accumulated during the day which required regular cleaning. The leaves would get stuck in the existing pavers, fake turf and low shrubbery along the edges, even proving cleaning difficult for a leaf blower. Also, the existing Colourbond shed was insufficient. The clients enjoyed sitting in the courtyard as a couple, but also with friends when hosting a charcoal BBQ. And of course a refreshed aspect from the inside was a requirement.
The new renovation fixes all these problems with the old courtyard. By stripping away all existing ground surfaces and introducing one singular finish, the four by nine metre courtyard now feels larger and less cluttered. The metal shed was removed and replaced by a timber clad shed in a new position, and all existing planting was removed except for the tree near the back door. Planter boxes and a seat with storage were introduced to the east, south and the west sides of the courtyard. Exposed aggregate off-white concrete with new white textured walls creates a refined aesthetic and gently brings more light into the adjacent interior kitchen and dining rooms. Whilst the addition of the two curved steps invite you to pause and enjoy the northern light.
Architect: Canopy Architecture
Location: Wurundjeri Woi Warrung & Bunurong Country (Windsor, Victoria)
Builder: pH Landscape Constructions
Photography: Nish Photography
WANDILIGONG HOUSE
The brief for the Wandiligong House was to create a private courtyard with ample sunlight, and to add a new Master bedroom, walk in robe and artist studio. The existing house faced onto the main thoroughfare of Wandiligong and backed onto the well used ‘Wandi to Bright’ bike trail along Morses Creek. So even though there was an existing north facing deck and garden, there was a necessity for a private outdoor space where the family could gather without the view of passing traffic.
The clients also wanted to provide some visual interest for the passing cyclists and walkers on the western side. Despite the property having a Heritage Overlay, the new addition to the house provides a contemporary interpretation of a residential home. The jet black metal cladding is a stark contrast to the existing weatherboard house, however its form and scale is respectful and not over bearing. The artist studio is clad in ironbark shiplap cladding, which further compliments the existing house while creating an interesting insertion into the landscape.
Finally, the existing dining room was given two new windows to open up the space and enhance the connection to the north facing deck and garden. One set of French doors were replaced with large sliding doors, and one door, which was rarely used, was replaced with a single large window.
Landscape Masterplan, Planning permit documentation, B.A.L. rating and Bushfire construction requirements, D.T.S. energy rating, and Building permit documentation were all designed and resolved by Canopy Architecture.
Architect: Canopy Architecture
Location: Dhudhuroa & Taungurung Country (Wandiligong, Victoria)
Builder: Montwood Builders
Photography: Nish Photography
THE STUDY POD
The brief for this project was to design an office for Canopy Architecture and also provide a study for my partner. We decided to build a one room building in our front garden separate from the main house. We both required large desks, ample storage for books, files, references, and collections from our travels. The space could also serve as an after hours retreat where one of us could read and relax.
My desk faces south and overlooks the ‘Clear spot’ which is one of the many lookouts here in Bright. My partner’s desk faces west to the gum trees and occasional passing traffic. And to the north we have a large deck where we are still yet to entertain friends for Friday drinks.
The Study Pod is designed and constructed to comply with BAL 29 rating and Six star energy rating requirements, and meets the provisions for AS 3959.
Architect: Canopy Architecture
Location: Dhudhuroa Country (Bright, Victoria)
Builder: Craig Martin Building & Carpentry
Photography: Canopy Architecture
THE HOUSE ON THE HILL
This project required an extension to the main house and a new garage. The clients wanted to upgrade their kitchen, living, and ensuite but keep the character of the existing house. The new garage needed space for two vehicles, a workshop and a cellar.
The strategy for the house extension was simple - to extend the roof line on the west side to provide the new kitchen and living. This also created a new south facing deck which maximised views to Mystic Mountain which had not been fully appreciated by the existing house design. The roof line to the east was extended as well to allow a larger ensuite and additional storage space upstairs.
The interior of the new extension is sympathetic to the existing house and has similar timber lining on the walls and continuation of the timber flooring. The introduction of a cathedral like ceiling and rock wall in the living area has brought a sense of grandeur to the family area, whilst the view brings a peaceful atmosphere. With the new spa on the deck there are plenty of options for relaxation and entertainment.
In the new ensuite there are warm terracotta tiles and a timber vanity. Although all built in furniture is in the traditional style, there are all modern fittings to add a contemporary feel.
Outside the new garage is built into the hill and has three walls that are retaining walls. These three walls are constructed from polystyrene blocks and concrete infill, giving the garage and cellar excellent thermal properties.
Architect: Canopy Architecture
Location: Dhudhuroa Country (Bright, Victoria)
Builder: Jamie Armstrong
Photography: Canopy Architecture
TOORAK GARDEN
Small outdoor spaces can easily be overlooked as a place to spend relaxing time. This courtyard was typical of many inner city townhouses, unused & tired despite being easily accessible. The design was based on the brief to firstly create a pleasant space where family members and guests can be entertained, and secondly to have plants that are drought tolerant and require minimal attention. The original garden consisted of patchy lawn and several pots of succulents. The existing colour of the rendered walls had to remain the same due to Body Corporate restrictions, calling for a colour palette to match. The result is a geometric layout to suit the modern interiors of the house, retention of the bamboo and some trees, planting of native Australian plants, and installation of fixed seating for entertaining.
Architect: Canopy Architecture
Location: Wurundjeri Woi Warrung & Bunurong Country (Toorak, Victoria)
Photography: Canopy Architecture
FITZROY BATHROOM
Redesigned and rescued what was a 1980's bathroom of terracotta and deep green hues, to create a contemporary space that was serene but with style. The clients were expecting their first child, so a bath was a must. The existing bathroom was only 4.4 square metres, so a sliding door entrance and narrow full height storage unit were introduced to provide more space. The selection of modern fittings and fixtures, combined with a vintage free-standing bath, create a stylish space that is inviting for daily cleaning rituals.
Architect: Canopy Architecture
Location: Wurundjeri Country (Northcote, Victoria)
Photography: Canopy Architecture