garden first

We can help clients develop their properties while contributing meaningfully to greener cities and stronger neighbourhoods.

New homes often mean less private garden space and potential impacts on neighbouring open space.

Some neighbours simply don’t want gardens, trees or possums nearby. Our work here on this project in NorthFitzroy begins with that reality.

what is a garden?

Current residential regulations (res code) require developers to provide Private open space equal to 20% of the lot area or 80 m² (whichever is lesser), but not less than 40 m², with at least part of it being usable and accessible from a living area

The above does not necessarily mean garden. This scheme retains 70% open space, much of it genuine garden.

The project achieves this by carefully positioning the built form in response to a considered passive solar strategy, based around tree protection

what is density?

Site access is retained on both sides of the heritage cottage, and the laneway is upgraded through the provision of active frontage. This approach preserves the capacity for three dwellings to be accommodated on a single plot. Possible development arrangements are as follows:

– Intergenerational living

– Separate dwellings (STCA)

– Future units (STCA)

A key tactic of the density strategy here is flexibility of use — and the possibilities that come with it (see also integration part two section)

integration part one

Gardens can be considered green infrastructure and contribute to the neighbourhood by providing

Air purification 
Temperature regulation 
Stormwater management 
Biodiversity support and
Improved mental health and wellbeing 

integration part two

In the tradition of mid-century modernism, every habitable room opens directly onto an immersive garden landscape

The compact plan of the new dwelling is arranged around views and glimpses, extending space beyond the walls.

To match the proportions of the existing cottage and allow flexibility, rooms have a preferred minimum usable functional area (UFA) of 13m² (3.6m × 3.6m).

A key tactic of the density strategy is flexibility of use — and the possibilities that come with it (see also density section).

  • shirley (we think)

  • chinese elm

  • the natural pool

  • the moonlit shower

  • room divider cabinet and planter box

    the shoe cabinet

  • the green screen

  • pool dreams evolving

  • safety tunnel to next door for shirley and friends

With gratitude to the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Elders past, present and emerging, and to all who have quietly and steadfastly supported this protracted undertaking

design partners include:

_Natural swimming pools Australia

_Inc.arc

_Altereco and consultants

_Hazelwoodhomes and consultants