A 350 sq”m plot located on a
slope overlooking a lovely scenic view, led to strategic positioning the house
with a clear axis leading to the view from the entrance door, through the ground
floor, to the rear glass facade. The front facade, facing the street, was kept
relatively closed, mainly to keep the occupants’ privacy, but also as a means
of keeping the wonderful rear view, a pleasant surprise once entering the
house. The ground floor was cladded with grey coloured fibre cement boards,
which creates a “breathing” facade, contributing to the thermal insulation of
the house by allowing an “air pocket” between the outer clad and the concrete
walls, to naturally ventilate the trapped air .A 50 m”m super insulating
plaster was applied to the first floors’ facade and then a rough textured white
mineral plaster was added to it, in order to keep the direct sun radiation
minimal. The use of these materials helped to emphasize the main design theme
of clear separation of the ground and the- “white box” first floor above it.
All windows of the house are made out of an advanced, double glazed and double
faced, highly insulating aluminium system, which allows the outside views to be
enjoyed while keeping out the heat and cold. External electrical venetian
blinds were installed to give extra protection to the windows, providing
versatile control over the direct sun rays penetrating the house during the
daytime. Although the site is relatively compact, the layout of the floors
creates a cosy family home with room for all of the clients’
demands.
