Union Street Residence 2019

Union Street Residence

This small urban infill home, on only 207m2 of land, demonstrates how creative thinking can help slow the urban sprawl of Perth.

Reverse brick veneer external walls, coupled with additional thermal mass in concrete slabs, was chosen to optimise thermal performance. Double-layered insulation was utilised under roof sheeting, over ceilings, within framed walls and in masonry cavities. A third layer of phase-change insulation was also incorporated over all ceilings and under rooves to futher assist in diurnal temperature stabilisation.

Double-glazed thermally broken frames were utilised to all new fenestration and joinery. External parasols via vertically retractable blinds shade lightweight walls and provide privacy to windows when required ,whilst allowing views to be maintained. Other windows incorporate laser-cut screens and overhangs integrated sculpturally within the shard-like forms. Sustainable sourced hardwood timbers provide natural warmth and intimacy to both interior and exterior spaces.

Rainwater is collected via a 22,500L tank located under the garage for use in toilet flushing, washing, garden watering, reticulation and pool top-up. A gas-boosted solar hot water system with circulating ring main minimises water and energy consumption. Further water-use efficiencies are achieved by the use of subsoil irrigation, and raised food gardens take pride of place on the verge.

The house is self-sufficient for its power, with 5.86kW of solar panels on the north- and west-facing rooves feeding to a battery backup system. Ongoing energy consumption is minimised through the use of predominantly LED fittings. Uniquely, the project also incorporates Perth’s first domestic closed-loop geothermal heating/cooling system, which uses the equivalent energy of a small conventional split system for the whole house.

Designed by Chindarsi Architects and built by Castleprime Construction.

This house achieved a NatHERS rating of 8.5 stars using NatHERS accredited software (AccuRate). Find out how the star ratings work on the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) website.

This home is supported by