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Project Galleries Residential

Backyard Studio

by Figureground Architecture

Words by James Lyall Smith

Photography by Derek Swalwell

The Backyard Studio Project Examines The Evolution Of The Granny Flat Rear Shed By Offering A More Meaningful And Contributory Ancillary.

The Backyard Studio Project Examines The Evolution Of The Granny Flat Rear Shed By Offering A More Meaningful And Contributory Ancillary.

As Our Endlessly Expanding Urban Growth Continues To Place More Value On Inner Suburban Sites.

It Also Encourages A Model Of Density Sensitive To Evolving Family Structures And Multi Generational Living.

Since Its Recent Inception Figureground Has Developed A Reputation As A Leader In Innovative Hospitality Design.

Storage Area, Workshop, Laundry, Kids Play Room And Self Contained Guest Room.

The White Façade Peels Away From The Building, Working Efficiently To Expand The Outer Threshold, Weatherproof External Circulation Paths.

The Project Brief Was To Provide An Inner Suburban Dwelling With A Variety Of New Spaces Including A Music Studio.

To Open Battens And To Operable Panels Depending On The Need To Weatherproof, Screen Sun Or Create Flexibility Between Spaces.

. The Backyard Studio Achieves This By Reframing The Backyard As An Active Social Space And Essential Element Of The Family Home.

The Design Response Was To Provide A Separate Building On The Rear Boundary Of The South Facing Property.

The Variety Of Program Has Been Treated As A Functional ‘kit Of Parts’ Arranged Within A Compact 2 Storey Form.

These Disparate Functions Have Been ‘wrapped’ In A North Facing, White Timber Skin Which Transitions From Solid Boards.

The White Façade Peels Away From The Building, Working Efficiently To Expand The Outer Threshold, Weatherproof External Circulation Paths.

The Budget Was Relatively Low, So The Concept Had To Be Robust, Efficient And Most Importantly, Cost Effective.

Living Spaces Are Connected Through A Long Bench That Provides For Daybeds, Seating, Tv And Fire Unit.