Abbotsford
Alteration & Addition
Architect: Michael Stuart Architects
Year Completed: 2010
Project overview: This narrow home set on the Hen and Chicken Bay in Picturesque Abbotsford, was in desperate need of repair and remodeling.
In its original state the home stretched over one level with a garage on the lower level.
With sweeping views of the bay, and naturally elevated block the owners of this property decided to retain the existing envelope and build off that..
This home was in terrible condition when we took over the site , with most of the walls and floors having to be removed and reinstated to ensure its structural stability was not jeopardised by the proposed three story dwelling.
With water run off from the rear of the property a continuous threat, keeping this home dry was our biggest priority. With plans to turn the existing garage into a living area and bathroom, ensuring that water penetration which currently existed was stopped for good.
This meant hand excavating around the perimeter of the building and diverting the run off via waterproofing, dish drains and drainage cell.
The design called for a contemporary look with many different elements, which meant a number of penetrations sat over living areas and bedrooms.
An example of this was the timber decks that overlook the bay. all sat on top of habitable rooms and needed to be designed so that they would drain into the stormwater line but also sat level with the finish floor internally. This was done by screwing down 316 stainless steel brackets over compressed fibre cement sheeting that was graded to a drain underneath.
All exposed steel members that dress the façade had to be hot dipped galvanized and craned into position.
All roofing and flashings needed to be of duratec due to its proximity to the water and all fixings in stainless steel. Roof sheets were screwed on every rib to prevent up lift and extreme weather due to sites exposure to the elements.
Hardwood timber flooring, lines the floor giving it a warm natural feel, while bifold doors and frameless balustrade connect you with the outdoors.
Shadow line and square set finish off the wall and ceiling junctions keeping the home minimal and crisp..Ensuring that all framework and joinery was spot on was the key to achieving the clean lines.
External louvered screens give privacy from neighboring properties and high leveled power glass louvers allow for light and ventilation to flow through the house keeping warm in winter and cool in summer.
Over all this home site beautifully on the site and we are very proud of the final product.
Kind Regards
Micrah Projects Team