using every millimetre available to create a cosy extension to a victorian terrace in Carlton
Millimetre House aims to create a cosy, light filled home for a young family of four, with design strategies focussing on innovative use of space, functionality and good passive sustainable design. The proposal includes a two storey rear extension and partial demolition of the rear portion of the existing terrace dwelling.
Despite the compact site and long axis of the block orientated north-south, the primary living spaces are well positioned to face north with the living space opening up into a courtyard beside a galley style kitchen. The small light-well along the western boundary also provides further opportunities for natural light and cross ventilation to the ground floor living areas.
The extruded upper extension floats above the ground floor - open at each end to take in city views to the south from a new study and roof terrace and opening up to the north from the new bedroom looking out over the courtyard below. The east and west side flanks are wrapped in white metal cladding and extend past both ends of the extension to frame views and provide both solar control and privacy to adjacent neighbours.
A planter box below the bedroom window prevents downward views to neighbours while still allowing the windows to be fully open to take in the view and fresh air. Native wildflower planting softens the building and frames views from the bedroom. The planter box and its extruded cowling cantilever above the living room, providing summer shade to the living spaces below, while allowing winter sun to enter.
The south facing balcony, north facing courtyard, and shaded lightcourt provide the opportunity to seek the sun on cooler days, and the shade on warmer days. The design offers a range of indoor and outdoor spaces for members for the family to come together, while also providing a range of settings where people can retreat to have some "me" time, critical to living in a more compact environment.
