Architecture and Interiors

Robin Hill

Robin Hill

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Robin Hill is a testament to the adage, ‘a little can go a long way’. Guided by budgetary constraints and a desire to leave a small footprint, the modifications were mostly made to the existing property, with only a few new additions added: a sunroom, bedroom wing and a workshop.

Inspired by Scandinavian minimalism and rural architecture, we brought corten, galvanised steel and timber together to extend and improve on the panoramic views, access to light and flow of the existing corrugated iron clad house. The existing structural timber framing was removed and reused throughout the project, while the cladding and windows were recycled offsite, ringing true to our desire to make this a sustainable build.

To bring warmth and light to the new sunroom, plywood adorns the walls and ceiling. A new window opening frames breathtaking views of the North West Bay and Bruny Island, almost as if it were a painting come to life. The plywood purposely complements the existing
plasterboard-lined space, linking it to the new bedroom wing, which we added to the rear of the home.

Channelling the existing pitched roof, the new bedroom wing (with ensuite) adds much needed space to this two-bedroom property. Carrying through the plywood treatment – further amplified by a custom-made Tasmanian oak bed – it steps out to capitalise on the stunning vista. Additionally, a skylight in the ensuite draws the skyscape closer, a sight visible when relaxing in the bath, day or night.

Lastly downstairs, the newly glazed garage and workshop field a jaw-dropping panoramic scene – a truly inspiring place to tinker. Visually warm and free from glare, it further reflects how strategically updating an existing property, using the right materials, can completely transform its style, appeal and value.

Project start: 2020

Completion: 2023

Gross floor area:

Architect: Rosa Douramanis at Biotope Architecture and Interiors

Photographer: Massimo Combi

Fieldnotes

The existing house was clad with corrugated iron and roofing, with small windows spanning the length and width. The new design focused on creating large picture windows, with inbuilt window seats to maximise panoramic views and additional space by utilising the existing eaves depth.
The existing deck on the property was neglected, and so the updated design focused on creating an inviting space for use. An enclosed sunroom was added as protection from the elements, encouraging year-round use of this area, and in turn, maximising the inhabitants' view of the surrounding land.
The existing carport was infilled to make a garage, which gave the facade a flatter appearance. The new design focuses on creating depth by infilling the eaves and glazing most of the lower half so the house appears to 'float'.
We were able to lighten the lower level of the house by using extensive gazing, which doubles as a showcase for the client's car. The existing enclosed garage door was a standard panelled door, so to elevate this, the new door is lined with timber cladding to match the facade over the other parts of the house.
The rear deck area was unprotected from wind on both sides and was not used as much as it should have been. The new design focused on creating a covered deck, which is partially enclosed, with an additional new main bedroom and ensuite.
The location of the existing open-plan kitchen worked well, but it was significantly darker than the living areas. Increasing the window sizes allowed more light and sun into the open-plan living areas.
The modular windows in the existing open-plan living area did not enhance the panoramic views. This was rectified through the addition of expansive glazing.