At home in their environment

Seeking inspiration from the colours and contours of the land can create designs that are as individual and complex as nature itself. This connection with the immediate environment was a key element in the eight winning entries in the National Building Designers Association Awards for Design Excellence.

The eight category winners were eventually selected from 53 finalists, out of an initial pool of 500 entries. The top designers impressed the judges with houses in which lifestyle choices, spatial harmony and indoor-outdoor flow were combined into one, seamless design.

Designer Chris Vandyke from Queensland won the single residence with an enclosed floor area of up to 250m² category, with a tropical lifestyle home.

A combination of Asian design and the traditional Queensland vernacular of a veranda, this house consists of three pavilions that branch off a central spine. Rich natural timber posts and walls, and slate grey roofs complement the natural earthy tone of the rendered block walls.

The judges cited this house as fulfilling the clients' desire for a retreat from city life. The design was considered to be at one with its environment, neither dominating nor receding, but paying homage to its backdrop of an ancient heritage rainforest.

Mario Tascone from Western Australia won the single residence with an enclosed floor area of between 251m² and 350m² category.

This three level house was built on a 184m² lot. The shape of the house ensures large internal dimensions, while still maximising the potential for outdoor living.

Parapet walls on both side boundaries and a reduced setback to the front and rear, enabled the architect to make full use of the whole site.

An internal courtyard and balconies that incorporate a roof garden, also allow for greater outdoor areas.

Tall, wide windows and high ceilings create the illusion of increased space and integrate the home with the outside environment.

The judges liked the contemporary, cheerful exterior design which offered a pleasant street appeal. They were impressed by the high level of detail on a small site and by the indoor-outdoor balance.

Bob Davey from Western Australia won the category for a single residence with an enclosed floor area of more than 450m².

His initial brief was to take advantage of the river views from as many angles in the home as possible. His clients also requested a living area that could accommodate a grand piano and an outdoor entertainment area.

As there were several planning restrictions associated with a river front site, Davey designed a large home at the rear of the section.

The single level in the main living area has a minimum ceiling height of three metres to enlarge the sense of space.

The judges were impressed by the quality of interior detailing and the good solutions to a number of challenges.

Queensland designer Rod Butland won the category for residential alterations and additions less than $125,000.

His design addressed several issues, such as a narrow patio, small living room, lack of shading and the pool being too far from the house.

The existing patio was extended using a Dutch gable flattened slightly so as not to block the view from the first floor master bedroom. A new set of stairs improves access from this bedroom to the pool.

The judges claimed the design solutions were in harmony with the existing structure, providing good linkage between indoor and outdoor areas.

Phillip Buchanan from Queensland won the low density multi residential category for up to six dwellings.

The duplex pair in Chevron Island was designed to meet the client's initial comment that they wanted the river in their lounge.

The task was to have no obstructions like walls facing the views, while at the same time providing sun shelter on the west-facing site.

The units were built side by side for external access to the pool and jetty. As this meant a smaller living space, all external spaces were designed to look as if they were part of the internal living area.

The judges commented that these houses have an almost classic refinement of detail, with a good response to both the street facade and the river outlook.

For more information about the winning designs, visit the website: www.bdaa.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas