Timber beam oasis in Melbourne
With striking exposed timber rafters and polished concrete, this energy efficient extension in Melbourne designed by Green Sheep Collective shows how to transform drab to delightful.
Melbourne architects, Green Sheep Collective, have transformed a tired mid-century modern home into a modern, sustainable home featuring a large open plan space to meet their clients brief to be able to host family gatherings and create a more intimate and meaningful connection with the garden.
The new addition at the rear has been sited at garden level to strengthen the indoor outdoor connection. Large windows run the length of the extension, allowing northern light to stream in, with thermal mass in the form of a polished concrete slab designed to soak up winter sun for passive heating.
“The polished concrete slab, corrugated cladding, solid timber stairs, and exposed LVL beams make for a robust and lasting build. Their natural features add texture and life to an otherwise simple, low profile extension. This along with emphasising the exposed structure allowed us to achieve an engaging architectural outcome using minimal embodied energy.”
The most aesthetically striking element of the new design is the angled timber beamed ceiling which continues from inside to the external awning, further strengthening the connection between indoors and outdoors.
The result is a comfortable, warm and leafy home that the owners will be able to enjoy with their family for many years to come.
Photography by Emma Cross.