HOUSE M
Project by LouiseO Architect
Project Type:
Project Name:
Year:
Location:
Project Architect:
Stage
Contractor:
My responsibilities on the project
Professional – Louise O Architects
Architecture - High End Residential
House M
2022 (ongoing)
Sandton, Johannesburg
Louise van der Waldt
Tender stage was at the end of 2022, construction will commence early in 2023 once a contractor has been appointed
T.B.C. - pending contract negotiations
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Presentations and visual communication with client
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Technical documentation construction documentation
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Detail design
Project Summary:
Conceptualised as a play on the traditional farm-style house, this private residence aims to combine the comforting weight of solid brick farm houses with a lightness and transparency that, on first consideration, stands at odds with the sturdiness previously mentioned.
This was achieved in two main ways.
The first was to adapt the barn typology, by placing two elongated barns parallel to each other with what appears to be a floating bridge connecting them. This not only heightens the contrast between the stereotomic and the tectonic elements, but also brings much needed light into the two barns. Elements such as wall, railings and niches are also always set back from the main facade, in order to reinforce this floating effect.
The second method was to use light steel louvres on the end walls and gables, which face the front and rear gardens, thus notably fragmenting the facade in order for it not to appear as solid as it otherwise would.
In keeping with the concept, the materials selected for this project also navigates the line between heavier and more natural materials, like brick and timber, with lighter and more artificial materials such as glass and steel in order to achieve the traditional with a twist aesthetic that the clients desired.
It should also be noted that the construction of this project will be happening in phases. This has resulted in many elements, such as joinery, fireplaces and spaces allocated for artwork, needing to be designed in such a way that they can be retrofitted with as little impact on the rest of the building as possible.
