In celebration of Australia's finest architecture, Domenic Alvaro was recently presented with two architectural awards - Residential Architecture (Houses) and Small Project Architecture, for his Small House project at the recent NSW Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) Awards.
Adding to the urban fabric of inner-city Surry Hills, Sydney, Small House not only details exceptional architectural and interiors features, yet presents a solution to the long-standing issue of urban sprawl.
Reflected in the AIA's Jury citations Small House exemplifies a clever solution for inner-city housing, using contemporary materials and methods; moving beyond limited quasi-traditional outcomes.
"Small house investigates a new typology in the current urban living space, whilst still reflecting a contemporary lifestyle full of diversity and creativity; all for the cost of a city apartment," said Domenic Alvaro, Principal, Woods Bagot.
As an exercise in urban consolidation, the philosophy of small house proposes to build upwards rather than outwards by assigning multiple uses to single spaces, with flexibility for change in the future. The site is so small it can fit into the garage of your typical sprawling suburban home (7mx6m).
Earmarked in the NSW Department of Planning's "draft good design for medium density living," Small House is a living example of the direction of the government, to locate a greater proportion of new homes in existing urban areas with the majority being located within walking distance of existing centres, that enjoy good transport and accessibility.
"Sydney's urban landscape needs an injection of innovation as the city looks to more efficient use of urban areas to accommodate population growth," continued Domenic.
Held annually, the AIA Awards are the most prestigious in the design and construction industry, and have had a significant influence on trends in architectural design.
Photos: Trevor Mein