Workers cottage transformed into light-filled living space

Architect: Maytree Studios

From the architect: 

The Glasshouse Mountains Residence is a project that has spanned a number of years and three major phases of work. The first was a minor renovation to the workers cottage, followed by the addition of a living room off the side of the workers cottage which would act as a ‘knuckle’ for the third phase of work. 

The last phase added a double car garage and laundry and a large double height volume living, kitchen and rumpus space in the form of a traditional barn.

The structure and skin of the building is built from recycled materials - an oregon portal frame with expressed steel connections and second hand bricks - resulting in an industrial interior environment. 

A storage wall and stair shelter the long western side of the barn from hot afternoon sun. High level louvres provide vast opportunity for cross ventilation, making the home a successful study in passive cooling.

The new 'barn' extension is oriented to frame an existing orchid tree in the largely glazed exterior, providing privacy and shade for the interior. 

A central courtyard and fire pit has become the social heart of the home, with sliding doors and windows opening out seamlessly into this space.

Story by: Trends

Photography by: Toby Scott