Design Philosophy
The Macedon house was designed to endure the passing of time in a climate that includes frosts, snow, extreme heat and bushfires. A 100-plus year life span was envisaged for the house.Local limestone is used externally for its ability to withstand the elements and internally for its thermal mass. The limestone was carved and laid by an experienced team of stone masons. Unconstrained by the tight timelines governing most projects, the house evolved slowly, allowing the architecture to express the quality of workmanship of these craftspeople.
The courtyard plan allows for passive solar gain and enhances passive cooling through cross ventilation as the water feature and landscape in the courtyard cool the breezes.
Rooms are placed specifically according to the contours of the land, views and orientation to the sun. The living wing is located on the south of the courtyard allowing it to take advantage of panoramic views to the south while gaining sunlight via the courtyard to the north. A writer’s studio is on the west side of the courtyard while the bedroom wing projects towards the east.
Technology is used to allow the house to actively harness elements. Heating is provided by a solar powered hydronic system within the floor. Windows automatically open when required to catch prevailing breezes and automatically close in the case of bushfires.
