An addition sitting high and dry (literally) above the flood level, creates a refuge from the main family home and potential floods...
This addition to a home in Thirroul by Lisa Breeze Architect had a couple of challenges to overcome, but boy have they done it in style!
The main issue was a creek at the rear of the property which makes the land subject to dangerous flash flooding. The impetus for the extension, beyond creating a bit more space and more functionality for the home, was actually to create a safe refuge the family could use in the event of a flood. In this the wishes of the owners and the needs of the local authorities were aligned: they both wanted the new addition to be built higher than the flood levels.
To protect from potential flooding, the addition is set above the flood level meaning a level change to get into the two new bedrooms. This is handled elegantly, with a bay of louvre windows and beautiful timber stair extending from the original home. The base of the addition also needed to be permeable so floodwaters could pass through.
The owners wanted the addition to tie into the existing home and surrounds without matching it exactly. Plus, the need for the home to be lightweight and elevated gave the architect the chance to experiment with a more laidback look with colours and materials that have a fibro shack feel.
Timber fins to the east help to block out views of the neighbours, while still allowing sun and views in during the day.
Inside a stunning window seat takes in views of the backyard and lets in the north light. Storage space is cleverly incorporated all around. A strategically placed louvre window, in line with the hall, opens up to encourage a breeze while the fixed glazing to the rest of the window beautifully frames the views.
A cathedral ceiling in this bedroom space makes the most of the volume to help the space feel larger and more unique.
Both a refuge of additional space slightly separate from the main home and a possible place of refuge in the event of a flood, this stylish addition is the perfect solution to the challenges this family were facing!