We were commissioned to create a contemporary single-storey dwelling with four bedrooms, three main living spaces, gym and enough car spaces for up to 8 vehicles/workshop. Due to the slope of the land the 8 vehicle garage/workshop was placed in a basement level which also contained a bathroom and internal lift shaft for transporting groceries and luggage. The owners had a lovely northerly aspect to the front of home and their preference was to have warm bedrooms in winter and cooler living spaces in summer. So the bedrooms were placed at the front of the house being true north and the livings areas in the southern space. All living spaces have east and west glazing to achieve some sun in winter. Being on a 3 acre parcel of land and being surrounded by acreage properties, the rear of the home had magical vista views especially to the east and across the pastured fields and it was imperative to take in these wonderful views and outlook. We were very fortunate the owners provided complete freedom in the design, including the exterior finish. We had previously worked with the owners on their first home in Dural which gave them complete trust in our design ability to take this home. They also hired the services of a interior designer to complete the internal spaces selection of lighting and furniture. The owners were truly a pleasure to design for, they knew exactly what they wanted and made my design process very smooth. Hornsby Council approved the application within 8 weeks with no neighbor objections. The project manager was as passionate about the outcome as I was and made the building process uncomplicated and headache free.

New bathroom with freestanding bath, large window and timber privacy screen

The mezzanine level contains the Rumpus/Kids area and home office. At 10m x 3.5m there's plenty of space for everybody.

Detail shot of custom pendant light with filament bulbs. Photography by Manolo Langis Located steps away from the beach, the client engaged us to transform a blank industrial loft space to a warm inviting space that pays respect to its industrial heritage. We use anchored large open space with a sixteen foot conversation island that was constructed out of reclaimed logs and plumbing pipes. The island itself is divided up into areas for eating, drinking, and reading. Bringing this theme into the bedroom, the bed was constructed out of 12x12 reclaimed logs anchored by two bent steel plates for side tables.

The soaring ceiling height of the living areas of this warehouse-inspired house

With its gabled rectangular form and black iron cladding, this clever new build makes a striking statement yet complements its natural environment. Internally, the house has been lined in chipboard with negative detailing. Polished concrete floors not only look stylish but absorb the sunlight that floods in, keeping the north-facing home warm. The bathroom also features chipboard and two windows to capture the outlook. One of these is positioned at the end of the shower to bring the rural views inside. Floor-to-ceiling dark tiles in the shower alcove make a stunning contrast to the wood. Made on-site, the concrete vanity benchtops match the imported bathtub and vanity bowls. Doors from each of the four bedrooms open to their own exposed aggregate terrace, landscaped with plants and boulders. Attached to the custom kitchen island is a lowered dining area, continuing the chipboard theme. The cabinets and benchtops match those in the bathrooms and contrast with the rest of the open-plan space. A lot has been achieved in this home on a tight budget.

Shower, sink, mirrors & bath - Tin Shed House by Ironbark Architecture + Design PHOTO CREDIT: Ben Guthrie https://www.theguthrieproject.com/