Dream Build

Angophora (2x8)

Fecha de emisión: Jun 30, 2013

Richard Cole is an architect with over twenty years experience and he seems to specialize in building magnificent homes in impossible locations! Richard was presented with the ultimate challenge when his retired but very energetic parents, Terry & Tina, asked him if he could build them their ‘forever’ home. The site chosen in North Sydney has sweeping views, large Angophora trees and a sandstone rock-face running through it! Richard says: “The word ‘Angophora’ comes from the Greek word which means ‘vessel’ and I do like to think of the house as a vessel that contains the everyday life of people. In this instance, it contains the lives of my parents”. Richard has created a masterpiece over three levels, incorporating the sandstone escarpment as a feature throughout the bottom floor bedroom, bathroom and study that has wonderful thermal properties for the house. On the top floor, extensive use of wood has created a compact but spacious living area incorporating the master bedroom & en suite, dining area, kitchen, living room and outdoor deck. When the weather is right, the panelled walls slide back to create an open air canopy that takes in the city views as well as the beautiful trees and garden that adorn the property. Future proofing for the ageing process, all doors are double hinged and wide enough to accommodate the use of a wheel chair if the need arises, as is the purpose built lift that runs from the drive-in garage at street level to each floor of the house. Richard sums up: “Undertaking a project for your parents is a wonderful thing to go through. It was very humbling and gratifying to see how much trust they put in me, both personally and professionally. And you deliver on that trust”.