LINEAR HOUSE | Architects EAT

Linear House is conceived as a linear timber pavilion with a double-storey concrete block spine which runs parallel through the site. Positioned on a slight hill the site plays a significant role within its local context. The exterior of the building is encased in horizontally clad spotted gum, which is both ship-lap and battened together to form operable screens. The screens provide the house with a natural shelter from the direct sun while still allowing light to flow effortlessly into the internal spaces. Due to the natural qualities of the timber the buildings forms an immediate relationship with the local terrain giving the house a strong sense of belonging. Kwila timber has been used for the louver systems because of its hardy and durable character. Stained with natural oil the Louvers have been carefully positioned to maximise cross ventilation. Cutek oil has been applied to protect all the external timber from cracking while still encourage the beautiful greying process to encapsulate the outer skin. The main entrance while completely clad in spotted gum has been deliberately set back off the front elevation, withdrawing it from the direct climactic elements. The unexposed timber remains warmer and richer in colour while the weathered timber proceeds to grey off by the atmosphere. This minor detail draws on the natural character of timber to evoke a feeling of warmth and richness towards the inner domain while contrasting the exterior and linking it to the toughness of the Australian landscape. This internal and external motif is continued throughout the interior with all the spotted gum being oil and stained inducing hospitality and character. The ship-lap cladding flows from the outer skin, wrapping its way onto the internal walls and ceiling, a gesture used to bring the exterior into the interior. The spotted gum floor of the breezeway is a tongue and groove system which has been secret nailed and stained in a gloss finish, reflecting the sky on the floor and continuing the interplay between internal and external spaces. Timber joinery has been used throughout the house. One notable example is a timber joinery unit which extrudes upwards over 4 meters high and consisting mainly of American walnut. Erected in the entrance foyer and doubling up as the stair balustrade, its design houses numerous eclectic objects such as wine bottles, pictures, sea shells and classic books.