The project raised several challenges which required considerable expertise, careful design and complex engineering solutions to overcome. The exposed headland location on the NSW South Coast, a site vulnerable to weather conditions and bushfires, contributed to the project’s challenges.
Maximising views and creating seamless indoor/outdoor connections were key elements of the architect’s design. As such, external face-sliding windows and doors were required on openings in the living area and bedrooms. As these units cannot be fully tested prior to installation, meticulous design and precision craftsmanship was essential.
Provisions for double-glazing as well as deep door frames, sashes and reveals was an additional challenge, as the required FSC approved timbers are only available in standard section sizes.
Possibly the most challenging element of the project, however, was the design of the complex sliding corner window. Free from any central vertical support structures, the room essentially becomes corner-less when the window is opened, facilitating a phenomenal unobstructed view of the landscape beyond. Achieving an adequate weather seal was difficult, yet essential, given the exposed nature of the home’s location.
