FK IN THE WIND: Archetype Research - the CANOE REACH RESIDENCE

GENERAL INFORMATION

Location: Yeronga, QLD Australia

Architect: Brian Steendyk'

CANOE REACH RESIDENCE AS AN ENVIRONMENTAL FILTER

Site is located on a quiet section of the Brisbane River and offer the residence a stunning view of the natural environment surrounded.
High rise parasol roof let the natural views of the river easily enter the living area, block most of the heat during the middle of the day, also encourage better ventilation and lighting.
Office allows the residents to extend into nature by a floating structure.
Orientation allows the house obtain the sunshine in late of the day with a stunning view.
U-shaped plan facing toward the river allows for cross ventilation pass through the courtyard.
The house follows original contours of the land. This allows the house with less obtrusion to the landscape

CANOE REACH RESIDENCE AS A CONTAINER OF HUMAN ACTIVITIES
·         Steendyk focus on the large public space of canoe reach is for a large family can be clearly seen.
·         On the level of entry, effective zoning throughout the design with open public spaces such as the kitchen, laundry, service and living area. The courtyard as a central space links different areas.
·         Bedrooms are located on the second level protects the privacy but still capturing the surrounding views.
·         Open style courtyard in the center of the house encourages the family more often using this space on a daily basis.
·         User friendly can be seem form the house design, as Steendyk said, “Ability of good design to bring joy and a sense of quality to people’s live”. “I love to see products like the coat hanger used on an everyday basis.” (B, Parkes. 2007)

CANOE REACH RESIDENCE AS A DELIGHTFUL EXPERIENCE
·         Journey starts from the street entering the house. Going down the hill a water feature reflecting the light on one side of the walkway. The lighting with a bright glow appearing at the far end from above the steps simulates a tunnel. Users would follow and find the source of the glow.
·         A use of warm colours textures and materials linked well from the house to the environment, enhance and worked well with the landscape.
·         Grass slopes gives better landscape view when cuts down the entry way.
·         From the entry to the court yard are a discovery tour, totally different feeling and unexpected view will be find out after the stairs.
·         Natural lighting broadly used in the house, enhance the delightful practice to the users.
·         Courtyard embraces the notion of an outdoor/ indoor area for the family to live in.

References
Australian Institute of Architects. Canoe Reach Residence. http://www.architecture.com.au/awards_search?option=showaward&entryno=2008041485 (accessed 8 March 2010)