Zen: The Light Saw House

This residence in Melbourne, Australia was given a full overhaul with a design to reflect a modern sustainable living. The architects aimed to realise each client’s unique vision while also maximising the potential inherent in each site. Completed in 2016, the house was owned by a client who had not lived in it for 15 years whilst abroad.

The architects were called upon to accomplish the project requirements and they utilised the building materials in an innovative and modern way. The public area on the ground level is expansive to house the living room, dining area and kitchen, all built upon an existing double fronted Edwardian weatherboard.

Due to the compact floor plan, the architects managed to create generous proportion and space, while simultaneously allowing for garden views from all new rooms.

“Recycled or recyclable materials are preferred throughout. Existing external brick paving, paths and garden beds were salvaged and re-imagined internally to connect the garden to the wet areas,” as mentioned by the architectural firm.

According to the architects, much of the original house was retained, but retro-fit in a way to “exceed current building standards; a compact extension to the rear addresses the need to bring light and warmth over the top of the existing house.” The large roof overhangs provide protection to the balcony’s glass panels and shield the house from the direct sunlight.

Helmed by award-winning Zen Architects in Melbourne, the firm has 28 years of experience in the design and development of environmentally, socially and financially sustainable buildings. Their works can be found across Australia with a primary focus in inner Melbourne, the North and Eastern suburbs, coastal and rural regions of Victoria.