a cross-laminated timber construction in passive sustainable residential design
This project is a benchmark in passive sustainable design through its orientation to its careful specification and detailing of thermal insulation to form a sealed space with no thermal bridging between external and internal temperatures. Cross-laminated timber is selected for its thermal performance as well as its aesthetic, highlighting the new living space from the rest of the house. There is also a distinct change in materiality as the existing house and main entry transitions into the new addition with open plan kitchen, dining and living.
The kitchen is a very important aspect of the clients brief and has been designed to be the focal point of the room. The functional layout and generous bench space allows an easy flow between kitchen functions.
01 // Orientation and solar access
The new living area opens onto the rear courtyard, framing the view across the northern aspect of the room. The landscaped yard is book-ended by the existing home and the second private living spaces to frame the space into a secluded courtyard that feels as if it is part of the internal living areas.
02 // View axis and visual connections
One of the key concepts for the home was to maintain the view line from the entry,through the home to the rear landscaped yard. Although view lines through the dwelling are maintained, the clients did not want a straight view from entry into living areas. The gentle curve of the bookshelf wall helps to frame the entry as a more private sleeping zone while gently sweeping through into the main living areas.
03 // Passive sustainable designs
Solar access is carefully controlled into the living area to capture warming winter sun and shade the space from high angle summer light.The main Living area of the extension is made from Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), chosen for its thermal and acoustic performance as well as easily facilitating a trafficable Green Roof.
