St Ives Multi-Gen House

Approach

The clients – a multi-generational family of six – desired a sustainable multi-generational home that could make the most of a suburban bush-block and meet their specific needs. Separate but connected living spaces were required for each generation as well as fully accessible spaces for a profoundly disabled family member. In addition, the bush-block presented opportunities as a green space within a suburban context but required resolution of bushfire, slope and access constraints.

Process

Every member of the family was involved in the design process to ensure all voices were heard. The design ensures their sustainable multi-generational home provides sufficient opportunities for communal gathering as well as private spaces for retreat. Successful negotiations with council ensured the home was located on the site to maximise solar access, minimise environmental impact and provide for the needs of the family. Some key elements include:

• North facing aspect to all living areas, ensuring the home is passively heated
• Protected outdoor areas located to provide maximum privacy and green outlook
• Fully accessible ground floor with oversized passageways to ensure ease of liveability
• Separate entries for carers and visitors to protect the family’s privacy
• Bushfire resilient design with large recycled water storage and non-combustible materials

Results

This sustainable multi-generational home takes full advantage of its bush setting, providing privacy and greenery to the many family members. The home caters to the specific needs of a disabled child through warm and comfortable spaces while providing for the day-to-day practicalities of visiting carers. The design protects the bush environment while providing multi-functional and flexible spaces, operational net-zero energy, passive heating and cooling, water storage and extensive outdoor living.