Chewton House

Country: Dja Dja Wurrung

Design Summary:

Located at edge of the Chewton Bushlands, this special site provided the opportunity to capitalise on stunning views of native eucalypt bushland and rolling grassland.

Oriented along the ridge line of a dramatically steep hillside, the design proposal employs a simple rectangle, stretched in the North and South directions to take full advantage of views looking East and West from each side of the ridge.

The internal layout of the home is designed to provide a circulation axis along the East side of the plan, with all rooms taking full advantage of the views to the West. Full height glazing has been introduced to all West facing rooms. The burnished concrete floor has hydronic heating and cross ventilation and has been designed into each room to ensure a comfortable home throughout the year.

Significant outdoor entertainment opportunity is provided with a generous decking area on the West, featuring spa, pool, fire pit and outdoor cooking area. A deep eave to provide adequate shading to the west facing wall of glazing and a covered area for the length of the building was a key design element.

Given the exposed nature of the home, robust and hardy materials were selected for the external cladding. Blockwork and metal cladding feature heavily in the material selections. The dark colour choice of the metal cladding creates a striking form atop the hill for visitors approaching up the long winding driveway.

The new family home includes 3 bedrooms with ensuites, kitchen, pantry, dining, living, separate laundry, study, bathroom, rumpus room, wine cellar and 2 car garage. A key feature of the design was the two large, glazed sliding doors on the East and West of the living room which allow flow through ventilation on quite days and create a seamless blending of the indoor and outdoor condition.