Bardolph Gardens consists of two single storey houses built on under utilised space behind two existing properties in suburban Melbourne. Intended for the rental market, the high quality and sustainable homes were designed by Breathe Architecture and engineered by Vistek.

The houses have a recycled brick façade, and a high, pitched roof. As such, they fit in seamlessly with the materials and shapes of the neighbourhood.

‘Hit and miss’ perforated brick walls allow light and air to circulate through the space. They also create private nooks and courtyards residents. The interiors are bright, welcoming, and generous. Just as importantly, sustainability and efficiency were key design considerations. The design used material properties to maximise thermal efficiency. The build included solar panels, rain- and grey- water collection and a heat pump. Each house design achieved at least 8 stars, well above the National Construction Code (NCC) minimum of 6 stars.

The Bardolph Gardens designs open up an exciting new direction for highly liveable and eco-friendly rental homes in Melbourne.

All photographs courtesy of photographer Tom Ross.