Page 93 - Designing Ways 288

The entrance level of the house includes the common areas, including
the living room, dining room, kitchen, and guest bedroom. The upper
level houses three bedrooms for the family, each one opening up on
two sides towards trees and the garden. The subterranean level is
planned with entertainment spaces and a small gallery to house the art
collection of the owners.

Every space in the house opens into large cantilevered decks that
are partially sheltered and partially open, allowing these transitional
spaces to be used in different ways based upon the weather. These deep
recesses serve to keep the internal volumes cool throughout the hot
summer months when temperatures can rise to 50°C.

The internal palette is minimal with white marble flooring, wood
furniture, and subdued accents throughout.

The house is designed to be energy efficient, with no air conditioning
required throughout most of the year. There is ample natural light in
each space, as well as water recycling, rainwater harvesting, and the use
of natural materials in the interior.

The Nine X Nine home is designed contextually to the site, retaining
all of the existing trees and buildings between them. It is responsive to
the climate by reducing heat gain due to its planning and orientation,
creating spaces that merge with nature.

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