DUFFY HOUSE

NGUNNAWAL COUNTRY. Gently elevated and exposed to the elements on the eastern side of Narrabundah Hill, this large new residence over three levels is designed to take in stunning views of Canberra’s mountains and Woden Valley, whilst being designed for privacy, shelter from wind, passive solar harvesting and resilience to future bush fire risk.

The clients had purchased a hillside block on land affected by the Canberra Fires, which had eroded a large portion of the established built fabric and vegetation of Duffy. The brief for this new large residence in the Canberra suburb of Duffy included bushfire-resistant design.

The accommodation comprises two living areas, a large kitchen and dining area with a double-height space at the heart of the house, four bedrooms, two bathrooms, study, laundry and an additional Studio on the Ground Floor.

The L-shaped floor plan maximises the site's broad views towards central Canberra, Woden Valley, Black Mountain, Mount Ainslie and Red Hill, while providing access from the principal rooms to a central, protected garden. The orientation of the bedrooms towards this garden also addresses overlooking from neighbouring properties.

Sheltered from cold southerly winds, the private outdoor space opens to the afternoon sun and a naturalistic landscaped pool, set within a garden of native trees, shrubs and plants. The pool incorporates recirculating rainwater, with a rock bed and creek system forming part of its naturalistic filtration approach, a considered response to Canberra’s often restrictive water conditions.

Natural light and solar access have been primary concerns in the configuration of the plans and sections, with living spaces enjoying direct sunlight throughout winter days while being protected from the summer sun.

Team: David Haseler and Angela Rheinlaender

Builder: Owner-builder
Landscape Design: Mark Haseler
Structural and Civil Engineer: O’Keefe Engineering