Surrounded—Home Design That Embraces Flood Plain Site

In an age of connectivity and convenience, it’s easy to become detached from our environment. With contemporary development increasingly motivated by efficiency and economy, the result is an ever-decreasing connection to the landscape – and the people around us. The global pandemic has only intensified the disconnect and isolation experienced by many, revealing the profound impact that architecture can have on our wellbeing. Recognising the growing divide between architecture and the landscape was local Brisbane architect Tim Bennetton, who observed an opportunity to restore a lost connection. Located on a long, sloping block within a flood plain, New Farm House was conceived as a direct response to the landscape. “With such a long site, we arranged the plan to address the street and flood zone. With a long entry, you arrive through a courtyard which is technically exterior, but you feel quite sheltered,” explains Tim Bennetton. Utilising a ‘prospect-refuge’ strategy, New Farm House emerges from a densely vegetated setting (refuge), with long and short views (prospect) to guide visitors between spaces, always maintaining a connection between inside and outside. “We were really interested in allowing the experience of the house to resonate with different experiences of the landscape,” reflects Tim. The lower level of the house was raised 1.8 metres above ground to mitigate flood constraints, becoming a permeable yet secure series of spaces that blur the lines between interior and exterior. To the Brisbane family of four – wife Lisa and husband David, with boys Jaidan and Callum – New Farm House has become a cherished forever home, balancing sanctuary with a celebration of openness.

Architecturally, achieving harmony with the landscape requires a deep understanding of the physical and poetic conditions that create a home. Tim explains of his approach to design, “there’s always an overall goal to integrate as much landscape or garden into the house as we can. It relates to the wider issue of feeling connected to the environment in which we live”.

While the lower level is a series of immersive outdoor decks, the upper level of New Farm House is more enclosed, yet still maintains a seamless connection to the outdoors. This ambiguity of enclosure and direct connection with the landscape is enhanced by operable windows which feature in every room, allowing generous cross ventilation and views. So successful is the cross ventilation, that air-conditioning is optional. “The beauty of this space is that everything opens – it makes all the difference in summer,” owner Lisa explains. In winter on the other hand, the lower sun angle penetrates the spacious living areas. “In winter, the sun will reach the kitchen bench, and being a dark stone, it hangs onto the heat. It’s a toasty spot!” reveals Lisa. Facilitating solar access and comfort are the high ceilings, achieved using scissor trusses which bring structural and experiential lightness to the design. Thus, New Farm House is also a demonstration of restraint. “From a sustainability point of view, we’re trying to build less house and more garden,” explains Tim.

The sense of connection achieved through New Farm House is not limited to a physical sense – there is also a social underlay which celebrates a connection between people and architecture. “We pride ourselves on tuning buildings, so our clients can achieve a really deep connection. If we can tap into what resonates for clients, then we achieve that extra level of joy,” says Tim.

Lisa (an interior designer and artist) and David (a landscape architect) were encouraged to bring the design to life from their respective fields. David designed the flourishing garden, which envelopes the house and thrives in suspended irrigated planters. He also introduced a workspace, located on the permeable lower level. Lisa explains, “David’s office has been a lifesaver during lockdown. It’s beautiful but extremely functional.”

Likewise, Lisa designed a studio for herself; however, her pride and joy was the butler’s pantry, an innovative and practical solution allowing a portion of the kitchen to be completely closed off when not in use. The concept of compartmentalisation was continued throughout the house, allowing the separate living and sleeping wings to be closed when unoccupied. This inspires social interaction at every opportunity, encouraging family members to linger – together – in shared spaces. Although conceived and constructed prior to the pandemic, New Farm House discerningly responds to current environmental and social contexts. As a family home and offering of contemporary architecture, New Farm House becomes a celebration of the Australian landscape, and an opportunity for reconnection.

Inside issue 82—grab your copy