Waterfall

Waterfall is a vertical extension in Prahran. The project balances urban constriction, landscape and functions to achieve a living oasis for the owners, juxtaposed with Prahran’s bustling metropolitan milieu.

Render of rooftop deck with timber pergola and outdoor dining, Waterfall extension in Prahran

Render of cascading planter boxes over timber screen entry, Waterfall Prahran by Atlas Architects

Our design responses take into consideration environmental sustainability and human wellbeing. Due to the lack of landscape in this medium-density urban block, the design response creates a link with nature (in all its restricted, inner-city glory) on each level: the ground floor to the front and rear garden, the first floor to the planter boxes on the facade, and the second floor to the rooftop deck with planter boxes and view out to the street treetops. Natural-finish timber and access to natural light are considered and used as the second link to nature.

ALL HUSTLE. NO BUSTLE.

ALL HUSTLE. NO BUSTLE.

Render of green facade with trailing plants and timber battens, Waterfall vertical extension Prahran

Covered timber deck with outdoor dining among trees, Waterfall Prahran

The renovation reconfigures the existing ground floor and first floor for improved function and spatial flow. The ground floor maintains two bedrooms, a garage and a combined bathroom and laundry. The first floor is reconfigured to accommodate the master bedroom and ensuite, with direct access to the main living, dining and kitchen area. The second-floor extension houses the entertainment area with a home office, BBQ area and rooftop deck, looking out to the treetops and the city view in the distance. The site is 15m long by 7m wide, with party walls on both sides. The rear of the property is surrounded by adjacent buildings and small courtyards. Minimising overshadow to the neighbour’s private open spaces was a key consideration in our project’s form and articulation.

Render of kitchen with timber island and pendant lights, Waterfall Prahran

Render of open timber stair above dining table, Waterfall Prahran

Render of timber bar joinery with wine fridge, Waterfall Prahran

Render of bathroom with round mirror and tiled walls, Waterfall Prahran

Render of bathroom with arched round window, Waterfall Prahran

Render of terrace house street view with vertical extension, Waterfall Prahran

The environmental considerations in this project provide both aesthetic and practical benefits. The planter boxes on the northern facade, and water tank in the southern backyard, act as stormwater retention. Together they retain and slow down stormwater runoff. The rooftop pergola is designed to block out summer afternoon sun, while letting the winter sun penetrate the interior. The combination of a fixed timber screen and an operable metal screen provides privacy and sun control for the indoor spaces.

Floor plans of Waterfall vertical extension in Prahran by Atlas Architects

Minka