LOCATION: FORRESTFIELD Western Australia

PROJECT TYPE / SERVICES: Single House / Partial Architectural Service to Concept Phase / Owner-builder

FLOOR AREA: 235 square metres

PROJECT COST: $700,000 AUD

Located on a bush block in the foothills of the Darling Ranges, the steeply sloping site commands extensive elevated views across semi-rural land to the Perth metropolitan area and city skyline beyond.

Mike Edwards Architecture created a beautiful economical practical concept for a two level home that cleverly maximises solar passive design principles and comfortably locates the house into the sloping landscape.

The generous open plan layout locates the main living spaces and master suite to take advantage of the best views on the upper level with secondary bedrooms, utility rooms and garage on the lower level.

Sustainable design items include: solar passive design to maximise northern aspect and sun control, solar panel array, battery storage, potential for rainwater harvesting, minimal building pad and excavation.

As with all Mike Edwards Architecture projects, basic passive and solar design principles are taken into account from design inception. Considerable care is taken to optimise northern exposure and minimise eastern and western exposure to prevent undue solar gain in summer and take advantage of northern sun in winter. Suitable orientation and solar protection is integral.

Window and door openings are designed to facilitate flow-through and cross-ventilation as well as providing low-e glass and double glazing where required.

Appropriate specifications, material selection and building insulation is provided to more than adequately meet building code energy requirements.