Olivia van Dijk Architectures' entry in the NSW Department of Planning and Environment's Missing Middle Competition has been featured in todays issue of the Newcastle Herald.
“The design shows that quality of living doesn’t have to be compromised on sites with a small footprint”
Read more about the competition and the draft Medium Density Housing Code here
Some very exciting news! The NSW Department of Planning and Environment recently conducted the Missing Middle Design Competition, calling upon architects and building designers to showcase their visions for the future of medium density housing in NSW.
I'm very proud to announce that on Monday evening Olivia van Dijk Architecture was awarded runner up in the terrace house category by the Hon. Anthony Roberts Minister for Planning and Housing
It was a pleasure to take part in the competition - there were some fantastic entries and it's an honour for my work to be recognised amongst such good company. Big congratulations to Platform Architects, Youssofzay & Hart, and Madigan Architecture for their winning entries.
“A generous, elegant response to both family living and to outdoor landscaped space which uses the aspect, topography and context within Newcastle to provide a model for a contemporary family home”
The competition received 111 submissions across three medium density housing types - dual occupancy (two dwellings on one lot), multi dwelling (terraces), and manor houses (two storey buildings comprising 3-4 dwellings). Known as 'the missing middle' for providing alternative housing options, these housing types bridge the gap between freestanding houses and apartment buildings.
Insights gained from the competition proposals will help shape the final Medium Density Design Guide
“These designs showcase how better quality design will ensure new low rise medium density housing is environmentally sustainable and will contribute to the existing character of an area”
Choosing the right accessories for your home is a fun part of the architectural process. I'm always on the lookout for beautiful bits and pieces to use in future projects. Here's a selection of my top picks...
Using timber salvaged from the furniture and carpentry industry, small off-cuts of Tasmanian timber are lovingly turned to create these amazing cabinet pulls.
“Designed to be comfortable to hold, these simple forms highlight the beauty of our natural timbers. ”
Circular powder-coated door hooks available in a selection of vibrant colours.
The DOTS, designed by Lars Tornøe, are a new take on the traditional coat hook. Made from high quality timber, The DOTS sculptured design can be arranged on your wall in any combination of colour and pattern.
The dots are versatile and can be used in multiple settings, including your entry, bedroom, bathroom and kitchen.
Designed by Nicholas Karlovasitis & Sarah Gibson, the Dial Hose Hanger is a practical and playful garden hose hanger. Its fun oversized dial keeps the hose tidy whilst adding a pop of colour to the garden or courtyard.
Great to see that one of my projects has been featured on the Design Files, home of the lovely Emily Wright and Rob Dabal. Check out the full article here...
“There is something so warm, inviting and just refreshingly relaxed about this home! It’s so great to see a sensitive, thoughtful reno and extension that doesn’t overwhelm the existing house, and which has a unique character that really reflects the aesthetics and values of its owners.”
“When we first moved in there was an outside toilet, no real bathroom and a shower off the kitchen – it needed quite a bit of work to say the least! ”
“Olivia did an amazing job of fitting old with new ...I didn’t want a totally modern exterior on the extension – they can be great, but I wanted it to fit harmoniously with the ‘old’ materials on the front of the house.”
