The empire house was designed for a retired couple with a brief revolving around functionality, beauty and a sense of connection with place (on a compact allotment).
Project Name: Empire House
Studio Name: Lachlan Shepherd Architects
Location: Jan Juc, Victoria, Australia
Photography: Ben Hosking
Completion date: 2017
Building levels: 2
The response was to design a home which is “sheltered” from the streets, with a low slung, understated facade, that reveals little about the internal volumes one encounters upon entry.
Strategic use of glazing, including an internal/external sunroom space allows for filtered views of greenery and sky without compromising the internal amenity and privacy of the occupants. Highlight glazing and eave detailing also allows for full northern winter sun penetration and the exclusion of summer sun.
The material palette was selected for its low-maintenance and longevity with the intention that it will weather beautifully over time. The somewhat clinical nature of precast concrete, used throughout the home as an anchoring element has been softened with extensive use of internal timber components.
