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Sutherland's Creek House
New Home | Sutherland's Creek | VIC
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4-bedroom, 3-bath, Living / Dining areas, Kitchen / Pantry, Laundry, 3-vehicle garage
This four-bedroom residence is strategically situated on the exposed crest of a hill in a rural area north of Geelong. Following comprehensive site analysis with the clients, a location was chosen to optimise winter solar access while providing expansive views of the You Yang mountain range, Port Phillip Bay, and the illuminated cityscape of Geelong.
The home's design is centred around a series of courtyards, each featuring distinct characteristics and orientation, yet all positioned to shield occupants from prevailing hilltop winds. The principles of passive solar gain guided the configuration of windows and overhanging roof forms, with sun studies conducted during solstices and equinoxes to ensure effective management of shade and sunlight throughout the year. Operable windows on all elevations, along with cooler airflow through courtyards during summer, promote efficient natural ventilation across the residence.
The entry sequence features a bridge over a pond aligned visually with the distant mountains, creating a dramatic introduction to the home. Upon entering, three expansive picture windows showcase the courtyard gardens. The western wing accommodates bedrooms, while the eastern zone comprises spacious living areas, the kitchen, and functional spaces.
Beyond considerations for solar gain and ventilation, the use of insulated walls and roof spaces thicker than standard provides substantial insulation, ensuring protection from both heat and cold extremes.
Clad in long format handmade bricks made substantially from bi-products of the agricultural industry, the dark tones of the single-storey house have been carefully selected to help it sit subtly into the landscape.
