Challenge

The site of the Dragon Skin House is small, wedge-shaped block with views of the ocean and the Tomaga River. The views of the existing houses beside and behind the site created pressure on the form and scale for the house. A public access pedestrian lane runs down the east side, and a wide grassy public zone stretches across the front of this house, making the building visible from public space on three sides.

Response

The clients were well aware of the high visibility of their block and were keen that the house contribute to the street in an ornamental way. The zinc dragon skin scales gave the building this attractive and interesting element, and combined with a careful composition of concrete, white hit-and-miss brickwork and hardwood is also a response to the toughness of the marine environment.

It feels appropriate that in this case, the house does not try to hide in its beautiful landscape, but rather contributes as a large-scale public sculpture. Inside, the life of an active and multi-generational family goes on in privacy while having full access to the light and views of the north-facing site.