House Varachia | Jameel Omarjee

The project entailed the addition and alteration of an existing family house situated on an equestrian estate. The brief consisted of two additional bedrooms with en-suites on the upper storey and reconfiguration of the ground floor internal layout with the inclusion of a domestic elevator. Furthermore the client required additional outdoor living spaces in the form of semi-covered balconies and patios.

The client recognised the need for an energy efficient home that implemented passive and active design strategies. In response to solar climatic conditions the house incorporates deep overhangs and sliding timber slats in front of most exposed fenestration. Low-E glass was specified for all fenestration and ceiling insulation is to be incorporated below the new and old roof. Supplementary to this the client required solar geysers to supply hot water for the old and new sanitary fixtures.

The client required the internal spaces to be as open plan as possible and the inclusion of sliding folding stacking glass doors to enhance the level of transparency and to enjoy unobstructed views of the breath-taking natural surroundings. The client opted to change all fenestration to aluminium framed and requested that the sizes be optimised to take advantage of the views and maximise natural ventilation.

The primary building materials incorporated include structural steel, reinforced concrete and timber. The client requested a modern aesthetic while still keeping in sync with the inherent rustic spirit of place.