Platform House Epsom
CONTEXT
Platform house is located on a right-of-way site surrounded by
large traditional homes and mature trees on the lower, northern
slopes of Mangawhau. It is a new family home specifically designed
around the needs of the busy family lives of mum, dad and three
active boys.
DESIGN
The notion of the 'platform' derived from the feeling of a need
to rise above the slightly claustrophobic sense of enclosure caused
by the towering volcanic cone behind and imposing mature trees
immediately surrounding the site. Hence, the expansive living areas
are located on the upper floor surrounded by sliding windows and
doors allowing one to gaze through the canopies of the trees to the
suburban vistas beyond. The northern deck is an extension of the
platform, accessed from the living space and is suspended within
the cradle of steel legs that rise two stories to support the broad
roof canopy.
The rectangular form of the timber 'platform' is cleaved in two
and a cross-axis element of stone and glass inserted between the
two halves of the building. A 'piggy back' pair of mono-pitched
roof planes, one over each half, rise to the north to optimize
solar access into the centre of the plan. This central insertion
provides access and circulation into the house and between floors.
It also serves as a hub between the four distinct zones within the
house.
On the upper living level the space opens out into the filtered
light of the 'outdoor room', which provides the primary
entertainment space for the family and guests. Although actually
completely roofed over solar access is available on three sides and
from directly overhead. Timber slats are utilized to control
excessive sun penetration in summer. Gas-strutted timber shutters,
glazed louvres and vertical sliding sashes provide cross
ventilation when needed. At night the wood-burning stove is lit,
the shutters lowered and a welcoming, comfortable 'outdoor' dining
space is created. The rough-hewn texture of the local stone
complements the warm hues of the cedar paneling on the walls.
Sound sustainability principles have been implemented in the
design: The upper platform floor is a suspended concrete slab
providing thermal mass; maximum possible levels of insulation have
been installed in walls, floors and ceilings to retain the heat in
winter and for keeping the heat out in the hotter months; operable
sliding louvres are located on the western façade providing sun
control, ventilation and security as well as privacy; timbers have
been selected from renewable sources; and a rain garden is employed
to reduce and filter water run off from the driveway.