When the owners first moved into the 1980s beach house, it was dubbed the “playschool house” due to its array of window shapes, none of which operated correctly. The house was uncomfortably hot in summer, too cold in winter, and excessively noisy.
Project Name: Bronte Reframe House
Studio Name: Still Space Architecture
Principal Architect: Nina Still
Project Completion: 2024
Project Location: Bronte, NSW, Australia.
Gross Build Area (sq m): 265
Builder: M J Minard Constructions
Landscaping: Outdoor Establishments
Photo Credits: Brett Boardman
Initially, a basic window assessment led to a comprehensive retrofit that maximised the existing building footprint and structure. The result is a contemporary home that comfortably accommodates a family of five, seamlessly blending with its coastal location while addressing the acoustic and thermal issues.
Re-framing the existing house for climate resilience:
This included the addition of adjustable facade shading, an airtight and insulated internal layer, and an external ventilated system. These enhancements ensure a more comfortable home and reduce heat gain through the facade. The external frame is used to tie the existing house to the new work and provide a framework for sliding screens which modulate sunlight
Key features of the Bronte Re-Frame House Project include:
Re-framing the existing house for climate resilience:
This included the addition of adjustable facade shading, an airtight and insulated internal layer, and an external ventilated system. These enhancements ensure a more comfortable home and reduce heat gain through the facade. The external frame is used to tie the existing house to the new work and provide a framework for sliding screens which modulate sunlight.
