Thoughtful designed secondary dwellings can add significant value to a property. Situated in Gorokan, this project was designed as a rental property in the rear of an existing dwelling.

A minimalist geometry, with a skillion roof falling to South, offered a modern and sleek look to this project. In addition, from a energy efficiency point of view, it allowed the placement of a North face high-window that harvests natural light into the open plan kitchen-living-dining. Other sustainable initiatives, which are cost-effective, included double-glazed windows designed to standard sizes and the placement of a rainwater tank linked to a tap for landscape maintenance. Traditional construction systems, such as concrete slab on ground and insulated light-weight fibre-cement external walls and ceiling, were selected to keep the project on budget, meet BASIX requirements, while creating a fresh and welcoming home within the allowable footprint.

Due to minimal rear setback requirements, this project didn't meet Complying Development criteria, however it still met Local Environmental Plan and Development Control Plan requirements, being able to be approved via Development Application submission. A common challenge when designing a secondary dwelling is to maximize the amenity of both houses and still keep minimum controls such as landscaped area and private open space.

The intent of the project was to bring contemporary lines that complemented the existing buildings on this property. The straight charcoal volume talks to the light-weight construction of the existing garages that face the rear lane, while the pitched timber geometry contrasts with the traditional dark masonry house at the front. This two-bedroom addition has the potential of affordably house a family of four in the heart of the city. 

PAZ was engaged to do the feasibility study to help the client stablish the brief for the project and to assist with the best approval pathway. Due to local legislation requirements and site dimensions, this project had to be approved via Development Application (DA) with the local Council, which was done by the contractor engaged. 

During concept design and design development, one of the big challenges was to maximize the amenity of the livable spaces by capturing natural light while keeping them private. Another point of difference was the creation of a functional layout within 60 m² of internal area and providing a schedule of finishes and fixtures within their budget.