Retro House | SG2 architects + interiors

A new two-storey, secondary dwelling is proposed at the front of an existing property in suburban Melbourne.

The existing site is located within a green wedge beside a creek, which dictates the setback requirements and parameters for allowable building footprint. The wedged shaped footprint and form of the proposed house is a direct result of those requirements and restrictions.

A series of arched openings punctuate the facades, to pay homage to the strong mediterranean heritage in the area, and to help break-down an otherwise monolithic form. A series of elongated arches along the front facades provide vertical relief to the linear facade and help create order and composition for proposed garage and window openings. An open archway partially conceals a proposed balcony beyond, creating a strong sculptural element at the tip of the wedged form.

Low profiled Roman-style bricks are proposed for the outer "protective shell" enclosing the house, which references monumental architecture from the past such as aqueducts and the EUR building in Rome. aqueducts. A series of smaller arched openings punctuate the proposed rear facades, that are defined by a contrasting white render finish and black steel window canopies, which provide necessary detail and sun shade for north-facing windows.