A unique aspect
Unley SA 5061
The unique aspect of this project is the narrow nature of the site. Two semi-detached units have been designed within a total site width of 12 metres. This means that each unit is no wider than a double garage!
The challenge was increased by the fact that the narrow frontage faced north, making it more difficult to create a development that attained a high level of sustainability.
The small courtyards of each unit allow the maximum exposure of each room to light, a view to the lap pool and to a northerly aspect. Font and rear courtyards create a sense of openness that belies the narrow nature of the site. to increase flexibility of use the garages have been finished to a high level so that they can double as an extension of the rear deck via cafe doors that open to the deck.
CASE STUDY
A pair of two-storey townhouses have been created on a block of land that is, each, no wider than a double garage. Each house is 200 square metres in area and comprises 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, study, open plan living/dining and kitchen with double garage and lap pool. The building is of steel frame construction with polished concrete floors on both levels. They have been developed to a high level of sustainability using solar passive principles and low maintenance materials. The courtyard design allows almost all spaces to have a northerly aspect.
SUSTAINABLE FEATURES
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Plan shape to optimise solar access
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Pool waterfall creates passive cooling source
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Thermal mass in floors (polished concrete)
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Liquid pool cover reduces evaporation
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16,000 litre rainwater tank under garage floor
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Double glazing to all windows
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1.5 K/W photo-voltaic array
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Gas boosted solar hot water system
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Motorised solar pergola to north deck
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Thermal mass in internal walls
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Sunshading to windows
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Sweep fans
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Sloping ceilings with high level awnings
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Low flow shower heads and dual flush toilets
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Natural cross ventilation to all rooms
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High levels of insulation in walls, ceilings, roof
MATERIALS
WALLS: Rendered Powerpanel on stud frame with 2.0 insulation
Party wall – 200 concrete filled block with two layers of sound rated plasterboard both sides and insulated
ROOF: Colorbond corrugated metal sheeting / Alucobond fascias and soffit
FLOOR: Polished concrete
WINDOWS: Clear anodised commercial section / Aluminium frames with double glazing