Zaher Architects have delivered a stately new home that sits lightly on its site, engaging with its setting to combat harsh weather conditions whilst taking advantage of expansive hinterland views.
September 17th, 2013
With over 20 years experience in design and architecture Zaher Architects latest project is the commanding Coorabell residence in the Hinterland of Byron Bay.
In the Coorabell residence, Sam Zaher’s clients brief him to deliver a contemporary home that would sit lightly on the land, avoiding ostentatiousness but offering “a welcoming approach.”
Due to its cliff-top location, the site was susceptible to wind from all directions, forming the principal design challenge for Zaher. In combating the environmental restraints without compromising on lifestyle for his client, Zaher set about creating two decks, each with equally impressive views, their placement though affording the resident’s the ability to escape the elements depending on the direction from which the wind was blowing – a wonderfully passive response to setting.
Incorporated into the final design were a range of sustainability and environmental considerations. Taking advantage of the exposed site, all living areas are aligned to be north-facing , addressing the expansive views and the abundance of natural light. Furthermore, solar panels were installed on the buildings roof which generate power for the house, with a series of batteries as cautionary back-up. In addition, the occasional rainfall is harvested in vast tanks to complement the house’s onsite waste system.
Zehar has designed the house with a basic U-shape, providing for his client a range of separate outdoor areas. Each space, thanks to its location, proving functional over the range of seasons of the year. Two north-facing decks become the primary, outdoor communal area in Winter months whilst the south-facing courtyard is suitable throughout Summer and offers better protection during windier periods.
Zaher Architects
zaherarchitects.com.au
Photography: Michael Nicholson
micnic.com.au
A searchable and comprehensive guide for specifying leading products and their suppliers
Keep up to date with the latest and greatest from our industry BFF's!
In the pursuit of an uplifting synergy between the inner world and the surrounding environment, internationally acclaimed Interior Architect and Designer Lorena Gaxiola transform the vibration of the auspicious number ‘8’ into mesmerising artistry alongside the Feltex design team, brought to you by GH Commercial.
The American Hardwood Export Council promotes the works of next-gen designers through Discovered Singapore exhibition happening from 16 to 22 May at Red Dot Design Museum Singapore.
The Sub-Zero Wolf showrooms in Sydney and Melbourne provide a creative experience unlike any other. Now showcasing all-new product ranges, the showrooms present a unique perspective on the future of kitchens, homes and lifestyles.
Channelling the enchanting ambience of the Caffè Greco in Rome, Budapest’s historic Gerbeaud, and Grossi Florentino in Melbourne, Ross Didier’s new collection evokes the designer’s affinity for café experience, while delivering refined seating for contemporary hospitality interiors.
Combining compact construction and high performance LED technology, these new downlights by TRILUX pack a punch.
Quench your creative appetite with this new retail destination in Collingwood, Melbourne, where ceramics are the main focus.
The internet never sleeps! Here's the stuff you might have missed
Alona Klaro, founder of Klaro Industrial Design (KID), has set her sights on shaking up the specification game. As a product designer with expertise in office furniture, Klaro is looking to bring the “slow fashion” approach to fit outs and interiors, paving a way for commercial designers to address the evolving needs of modern workplaces […]
From playgrounds to skyscrapers, these are a few of the projects that have been celebrated at the Greater Brisbane Regional Architecture Awards for defying conventions.
GBCA and Winya are leading the way for better consultation and cooperation with Australia’s First Peoples.
When iconic brands wield their influence, the ripples extend far beyond aesthetics. And so when the MillerKnoll collective formed, the very concept of design shifted, supercharging the industry’s aspiration to create a better world into an unwavering sense of responsibility to do so.