By REFRESH*
Small Lot Terrace House Development
This diminutive site – just 7.2m wide and 46m long, and previously used to park fifteen cars – has been transformed into three floating houses with raised gardens, while retaining most of the commercial car parking below.
With a footprint of just 330m2, the development of this urban leftover space on Arthur Street exemplifies the possibilities for ‘Missing Middle’ housing in Brisbane. Three new terraces – each with three bedrooms and two bathrooms – offer the qualities of spaciousness, openness and natural light that residents appreciate in the sub-tropics. The homes are separated by raised planters and decks, which provide ample outdoor space to the open plan living areas, and contribute to privacy. Our interpretation of the Brisbane City Character Code enabled a third storey – built into the attic spaces – while conforming to the shape and proportion of surrounding homes. Strategic placement of dormer windows makes these upper floors feel generous, with the added benefit of interesting special arrangements.
Together with our award-winning Longfellow Terraces housing, this Missing Middle project demonstrates how clever design can sensitively add new homes to desirable inner city neighbourhoods.
Australian Institute of Architects 2020 Queensland State Awards Commendation Multiple Housing
“Overcoming challenging site constraints to create light filled, yet private sanctuaries amongst the inner city, Trio On Amos is shaped by an innovative approach to provide accommodation for the ‘missing middle’.” Queensland Awards jury citation”
Awards
2020 AIA Brisbane Regional Awards - Commendation - Multiple Housing Category
2020 AIA Queensland State Awards - Commendation - Multiple Housing Category
2020 The Plan International Award - Finalist - Housing Category
Location
Fortitude Valley, Brisbane
Timeline
2014-19
Photography: Andy Macpherson
REFRESH* [R*] is a multi-award-winning Brisbane (Australia) based studio for architecture committed to realising finely crafted contemporary architecture responsive to brief and context.
R* believes great architecture contributes to a better functioning society. Our mission is to use design as a tool to exceed our client’s aspirations whilst balancing their intentions to
positively influence the environment and enhance people’s lives.
We strive for the most meaningful and sustainable solutions. From concept to delivery, in every phase, we continue to improve and refine the design until the project is complete.
Our work has a strong focus on sustainability, underlined by its capacity to endure. It is contextual, adaptable, harmonious, and well-considered in the use of space, light, material, and technology.