Sustainable Infill Terrace House Development

Longfellow Terraces are an example of what the often-discussed “Missing Middle” could look like in Brisbane - a sustainable infill-development for sensitive densification of inner-city suburbs. Inserting additional dwellings into existing infrastructure allows more people to enjoy the qualities of these precincts rather than adding to the urban sprawl. 

Inspired by the way in which ancient people used to live under trees for protection from the elements, the design genuinely connects the entire living floor to the landscape by providing sheltered and unobstructed spaces that are truly in touch with nature. 

The spatial arrangement of the project takes queues of the functionality of “Sydney Terrace Houses”. Three-storey dwellings use the sloping land to fully conceal garages and driveway thus avoiding ground floor domination by garage doors. Instead, the houses feature entry sequences similar to traditional ‘Queenslanders’ with the arrival of visitors at landscaped front yards, stairs and verandas.

Design Strategy

Two conceptual drivers inspired the project, those of ancient people living in nature and “Sydney Terrace Houses”.

Trees have a central role in most indigenous cultures with the crown offering daytime shelter from harsh sunlight and rain, while providing night-time protection and safety from animals and enemies. Drawing inspiration from these ideas, L.F.T. provides a sheltered, unobstructed in- and outdoor living space with the “crown” hovering above containing all bedrooms. Similar to light filtered by leaves, skylights together with stair and light wells allow filtered light into the habitable spaces.

Sydney Terraces meet many of the objectives of the well-discussed “Missing Middle”. Usually two or three storeys in height, they offer flexible and efficient floor plans that cater for varying uses, including commercial and residential. A typical layout would be: street – narrow front yard – two-storey dwelling – courtyard – garage/shed – rear laneway.

Australian Institute of Architects 2019 Queensland State Awards Winner of State Award Multiple Housing

“Through a successful and vested relationship with the builder, the architect was able to collaborate and resolve common difficulties in developing a well design and affordable housing model.

The project is an exemplar for infill housing, demonstrating how higher densities can be successfully achieved within suburban areas through careful consideration of climate, context and liveability.”

Queensland Awards jury citation

Awards

2019 AIA Brisbane Regional Awards - Commendation - Multiple Housing Categoryr 

2019 AIA Queensland State Awards * State Award - Multiple Housing Category

Location
Norman Park, Brisbane

Timeline
2017/18

Photography: Cathy Schusler