SA Building Design of the Year 2022: Geoff Alexander Alexstar Building Designs, Glenelg

WINNER

South Australia Building Design of the Year 2022

Designer: Geoff Alexander, Alexstar Building Designs Location: Glenelg Web: alexstar.com.au Builder: Groth Construct Pty Ltd Energy Assessor: Star Rate Services Photographer: Nick Dunn Photography

The Judges said

The new work reaches to the sky creating moving light within. The lightwell is incredible. From the front you have no idea of the “wow” factor within. A well-balanced design outcome that will stand the test of time and extends the life of the home for another generation. It is quite magical to take something old and transform it into something new more so when it harmoniously works, an amazing transformation, job well done.

Project Brief

The brief was to open the kitchen space and add a bedroom/study and ensuite to a 1960’s stone and tile dwelling. Geoff Alexander from Alexstar Building Designs followed the client’s clear vision for the home to create a beautiful, functional space with the perfect mix of old and new. The brief included retaining the existing ceilings, yet required changing the roof geometry; floor levels and materials throughout would also need addressing. The overall outcome boasts a modern home with a classic feel.

Sustainability Considerations

Lengthening the north facing roof and changing the lean to section to a hip end, enabled solar panels to be installed on the larger northern roof space, at a pitch that enables good solar exposure. The roof is connected to a rain water tank and the materials used on the exterior of the building were largely recycled stone from other buildings of a similar era that had been demolished.

High efficiency LED lighting has been used throughout the building. The timber windows and doors provide low heat transfer through frames. The owner has integrated the use of both ceiling fans as well as reverse cycle air conditioning and a gas fire to heat and cool the house. The demolition and waste materials were all sent via a waste recycling facility where they were sorted and recycled as appropriate.

The building was re-designed utilising the same building footprint as the original house with a small addition to the east end.