JOSHI-FORDYCE EXTENSION – Northcote

This project is a pair of extensions, one major and one minor to an existing, single fronted Victorian timber terrace house, one of a matching pigeon pair. The minor extension is an ensuite to the side of the existing master bedroom whilst the major extension to the rear contains a new bathroom, laundry and store with mezzanine study space above, opening into the new kitchen/living area, outdoor deck and backyard beyond. We see the form of these extensions as a kind of stylised lava flow of volume, shaped by the solid and void of the surrounding context and it's demand for private, open, unshaded space, as rigorously enforced by the townplanning process.

Double storey volume builds up against parapet walls, boundary walls and fences, but is flushed away by the forces of open space to achieve maximum volume where required with least possible impact on adjacent neighbours and the dwellings own private open space.

Orientation of the project with the backyard facing due west provided inherent difficulties with late afternoon heat gain, townplanning parameters restricting the re-orientation of the extension in any other way. Whilst the building generally 'closes down' to the west, there remains a substantial area of glazing on the ground floor to maximise the connection to the backyard. Whilst the fascia rakes downwards, a full length horizontal pelmet is provided housing blinds that screen this western glazing when required whilst still allowing a view out. The fibreglass walling is double glazed, an openable roof vent is provided to the apex of the mezzanine space for removal of hot air and a reverse cycle air conditioner is installed for summer and winter use as required

Photography – Shannon McGrath