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Did the clients push you in ways you didn’t expect? They have very keen eyes. They could certainly spot any aspect of the building or fit-out that appeared out of plumb, yet they were open-minded and appreciate good design aesthetics. Facing east the house admits plenty of horizontal, early morning light that bounces off the living room ceiling. The speakers, lights and numerous other elements are concealed and ‘eventless’ as possible. All that is visible are a pendant light and two down-lights over the kitchen island. Everything is intended to accentuate the effect of light. Was there a perception glass could present solar or thermal issues? That was why we chose high-performance ComfortPlusTM and ThermoTechTM double-glazing for the project. And it’s working well. The house has been through a summer and winter and there have been no complaints or call-back. Any other benefits of glass? With so much glazing we wanted the colour consistent performance of ComfortPlusTM throughout the project. Glass also accentuates the design’s sculptural qualities and emphasizes the rhythm and play of light. Good architecture provides options - whether it’s where you can perch, or entertain, or live and adjust with features such as lots of sliding walls. In less considered, more straight-jacketed houses, you see the options dry up. We really wanted to provide a range of experiences. I know it’s a bit of a cliché, the inside/outside business, but that glazing spine easily becomes a breezeway once opened and provides an additional room. The clients often hang out there which indicates how successful it is. You can find shelter or a sunny spot and so it’s much less about air-conditioned luxury than being connected to the environment and knowing the time of day. What about sustainability? The building footprint is oriented along the east/west axis, with the shorter elevations facing east/west. A ‘cooling spine’ along the southern boundary, draws cool air from the basement up through the house and through the shaded first floor windows. External shading with deep eaves, retractable and fixed external blinds moderate east/west (and summer’s northern) sun. A roof garden also provides effective insulation. Obviously we see Viridian double-glazing as a huge contributor to bringing in the very best of the climate and setting and keeping away the worst. Is there a standout space for you? For me it’s the courtyard. The timber battens cast shadows across the windows and floor and that pattern-play occurs throughout winter and summer. Cocooned next to the library and bookcases you can sit there with a book and look clean through the lounge-room to the ocean beyond. That’s a really beautiful place. My clients have told me how much they love it and, in the end, that is the crucial test. Credits
Project Palm Beach House Architect Shahe Simonian Architects Builder FS Hough P/L Structural Engineer NB Consulting P/L Glazier Award Aluminium P/L Principal Glass Provider Viridian Principal Glazing Viridian ComfortPlusTM Clear Viridian ThermoTechTM IGU incorporating EnergyTechTM Clear and VToughTM Clear.
Ocean Pearl