Arthur Circle - Griffith

The extension is located at the rear of the existing dwelling.  To cope with the natural slope of the block, the extensions are a split level design to ensure the floor is no higher than 1.8 metres above natural ground as required by Heritage ACT.  The extension has been broken into two separate wings, one being the new north east facing family room that is accessed via the remodelled open plan kitchen, the other the new master bedroom suite containing bedroom, wardrobe and ensuite facilities.  Providing two smaller wings ensures the new roof does not get too high and impact the appearance of the house when viewed from street level.  The proportions of the proposed roofs are in keeping with the existing gable roofs.  It also allows wet areas at the rear of the house to retain access to sunlight and natural ventilation via windows and the master bedroom access to northern sunlight.

These new spaces are linked externally by an articulated deck that offers a place for outdoor eating and entertainment, and also an active and attractive link to the rear yard.  A small lap pool has been located between the new wings and is surrounded by decking.  The pool will help to cool both outdoor spaces and internal living areas alike as air passes over the water and is distributed to adjacent spaces.

The materials of the extension match the existing house, namely rendered brick finish with face red brick base and tiled roof.  All new windows are double glazed timber framed to match existing windows and also improve the thermal performance of the home.  Likewise, internal details such as ceiling treatment, flooring and doors styles have been continued into the extension, giving the sense of connected, seamless spaces with little delineation of old and new.