Previous pages: In keeping with Box’s preference
for flexible, preconceived unitised build forms, the
rectilinear extension is constructed with glued
laminated timber, or glulam, a strong, lightweight
build material. The horizontal stirrup and post
structure with steel cross bracing works much like
an exoskeleton. This arrangement requires less
internal bracing, allowing for more open interiors.
Above: The addition steps in and out, corresponding
to the proximity of the neighbours and the lawn.
As the crisp design avoids fussy overhangs, the
windows are slightly tinted to reduce glare.
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With the cottage located in a heritage
zone, council requirements dictated that
the classic front façade be retained. So
project architect Tim Dorrington at Box
designed an open-plan pavilion to the
rear of the property as part of the complex
renovation.
“The two-level addition stands out in
contrast to the traditional cottage,” says
Dorrington. “Like many Box designs, the
extension takes the form of an expressed
post and beam skeleton with steel cross
bracing and black cladding – all adding up
to a crisp, modernist flavour. And if there
was any doubt as to where the old finishes
and the new begins, the strong contrast
from black to white highlights the change.”
However, there is one departure from
this clear cut difference between the old
and new. A garage required as part of the
project was built on the side of the home,
in the colour and style of the existing cot-
tage. This was appropriate as the garage is
also on show to the street and so needed to
match the house facade.
“Internally, the footprint of the cottage