Flutter House

Optimistic, light filled, youthful and fun. This addition to an inner-west home dynamically negotiates the geometry of the original building whilst addressing a mature and very present tree canopy in the park behind. The roof form unfurls from the existing ridge line like a flag in the wind.

The design of this addition was driven by a young family’s desire for a light-filled home with engaging spaces to raise children. The upper and lower levels are interconnected by the staircase, protruding balcony, and by an internal periscope, linking the parents and children’s computer zones. The internal layouts allow for the gathering of the whole family for social events, but also provide hideaways for the young children to play in their own domain.

The expressive roof form was devised by tracing the roof lines of the rear of the existing pitched cottage roof and the shallower pitch of the lean-to at the rear. The line of the original building is made visible internally by using both plywood and plasterboard wall linings. Mirroring these angels, the new roof launches with what seems an impossible cantilever over the balcony and outdoor areas below offering deep shade and protection from the west.

The addition sits well in the rear lane streetscape with its colour palette and scale, but offers a very unique response to the ubiquitous inner-west renovation project.

Design Team:

Stukel Architecture: Daniel Stukel Beasly

Team: Tobhiyah Stone Feller and Jeff Tighe

Soft Landscaping: Georgina Reid

Builder: Albatross Constructions

Structural Engineer: Birzulis Associates

Certifier: Concise Certification

Quantity Surveyor: Ian Smith Partnership

Hydraulic Engineer: Hydraulic Design Group

Acoustic Engineer: Acoustic Logic