Green

Building smaller, subdividing, in lling and creating multigenerational homes are some of the solutions for using less resources and less valuable land. Many of our favourite projects over the many years spent editing this magazine have been the ones that tackle smaller spaces. They have been designed with a level of scrutiny not seen in larger houses. They excite with their attention to detail, and they always look inviting. In the middle of vibrant inner Sydney, TRIAS aimed to create a place of calm in a heritage- listed terrace on a 45-square-metre site. Meanwhile on a typical suburban Melbourne block, a new house is built in the backyard as a solution for two families struggling to break into the housing market. We revisit a pioneering pavilion squeezed between two buildings in inner Brisbane, the new work aiming to complement architect James Russell’s original subtropical vision. A decision on scale enabled Maytree Studios and the owner of a Brisbane worker’s cottage to concentrate on ow and connection to garden as well as quality finishes. Finally, on a tight building envelope and using inspiration from Japanese floorplans, Antony Martin found a solution for his client’s home and office over three levels. Building on a tight site doesn’t mean compromising on outdoor spaces either, as demonstrated by Project 12 and landscape architect Annabelle Drew, where views take in a verdant courtyard and a softening green roof. Nor was it a last-minute consideration by Sharon Campbell Architects when designing a long narrow garden between two multigenerational buildings. Conceived as part of the overall design, the garden serves as a passageway, gathering place and playground.