Perched on a rise in Bulleen, this duplex property replaced a sprawling single-story dwelling to inject modern energy into the street. In an area that has seen less development to date than the likes of nearby Doncaster or Box Hill, our design approach was conscious of council requirements such as setback, facade treatment and overlooking windows.

 

The result is modern but considered, with an inset roof form and the materiality of timber battens and privacy screens creating a horizontality that softens the frontage. Situating a shared retreat space in the upper-level means that there is more interaction with the street as the generous window takes in the commanding southern aspect. With the planning permit application approved in half the expected time, this made for a smooth transition from design to construction.