Crabtree House – Misho + Associates
Project summary
Atop a valley, on a former apple farm, sits a long silver box. The position affords glorious views down the long valley, but is exposed to wind all year. Yet, the southerly wind flows over the curved, galvanised metal roof without turbulence; large, thermally broken, double-glazed windows provide framed views; and six tall Corten blades shelter the northern face, providing privacy from the road above and a microclimate to foster small gardens. The clients, in their sixties and seventies, approached the architect with a desire to have a house that would accommodate their collections and passions. They were also frank about this house being the one in which they would die and it is future-proofed through a respectful understanding of their ageing needs. The insulation rating of R9 and low energy costing is achieved by many clever strategies, including the linear plan, Brightgreen LED lights throughout and an evacuated solar tube hot water system that works efficiently, even in low solar intensity. This is a house of easy and intelligent internal pleasure. Yet, one’s gaze is always drawn to that view – the borrowed landscape of valley, trees, dam and hills.
Construction
Arnie Woolley – builder
Consultants
Matthew Webster – structural consultant
Misho Vasiljevich – interior designer
Dr John Paul Cummings – environmental consultant
Peter Whyte – photographer
David Morey – pitt&sherry – building surveyor
Haywards/Crisp Brothers – steel fabricator and installation
HydroSol – hydronic heating and solar/roof flashing
Glass Supplies – double glazing, thermally broken windows
Robbie Griggs Electrical – electrician
Velux Australia – windows
Artisan Concrete – concrete polishing