brown oxidation

The Ferrous is a converted obsolete suburban structure. Under the supervision of Johnsen Schmaling Architects, this house is now an energy conscious home. The Architects have used the existing foundations, main perimeter wall and plumbing cores of a dilapidated 70’s ranch but gutted the interior to produce a modern family home.

Several new ideas were added such as a new roof supported by exposed metal and wood trusses, cedar-clad cabinets, a cantilever over the edge of the building to add more space without changing the original footprint and a north facing clerestory. When possible, sustainable systems and materials i.e. low-VOC paints and stains, recycled steel and reclaimed and locally harvested woods and veneers were also used. In the clerestory, Nano-gel minimises the need for artificial light. Meanwhile, bamboo has been planted adjacent to the patio to provide shade.

Steel panels is wrapped on three sides of the house, to create a warm colour as it corrodes, echoing the hues of a derelict farm equipment in the site and also a protection from the neighbours and the elements.