The programmatic separation of functions and the compact nature of the space creates a distinctly intimate environment.
Small House is an ultra-compact concrete vertical house that adds to the urban fabric of inner city Sydney. The site is so small it can fit into the garage of your typical sprawling suburban home (7mx6m).
As an exercise in urban consolidation, the house is zoned vertically; Ground floor: utility/store/bicycle/parking; First floor: sleeping/bathing, storage; Second floor: living; and Third floor: food prep/eating/entertainment, topped by a working roof garden terrace, all connected via a series of stairs.
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The stair void also assists in drawing air out through each level via the roof-top sliding doors, maximizing vertical cross-ventilation. Large sliding windows maximise daylight, ventilation and frame city views whilst the solidity ensures privacy from surrounding commercial buildings and good thermal mass. A services riser connecting each level enables the reticulation of all services and additional storage.
The structure was built entirely from high quality precast concrete (including floors), fabricated off site and erected on site over a four-day period. Wall and floor panels, cast in provisions for stairs, balustrades, windows and light fittings were produced off site, minimizing on-site construction time and disturbance to the surrounding neighbourhood.
Small House is at once both a home and a commentary, challenging conventional thinking on planning and density. It posits a way of living that is effective, efficient and relevant to inner-city locations and it highlights a significant need to re-look and rethink how we consolidate our urban fabric.
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