Sustainably driving the next generation of design

Surf Coast architects Cooper and Blake are inspired to create homes of quality with sustainability as a main driver, addressing a shift in residential construction to ensure sustainable living is accessible to more people that want to build better.

Founded in 2020 by local director Jessica Murray, Cooper and Blake found its name when questioning what its designs would leave for future clients, communities and the climate.

The firm was named after the director’s two young girls – whose middle names are Cooper and Blake – helping to instil a reminder of “what we build now isn’t just for now,” and the need to service families and shifting owners for years to come.

“There are so many benefits of a smaller footprint, considering both sustainability and liveability,” Murray said.

“A smaller footprint not only reduces material costs but allows for larger garden spaces, impacting water permeability, cooling the site overall and allowing for further connection with the natural environment.

“Having a home connected to the environment positively influences the quality of life.”

Like many young firms in their first years, Cooper and Blake were able to get their first few projects through family and friends.

During their first year in 2020, the team had the pleasure of working on their favourite project to date, “Thisledoo”, a sustainable and accommodating family home in Torquay that is both environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing.

The project was built by Owner Built and CODACO and cost between $500,000 and $1 million to bring to life.

“As the family home of generations became increasingly unable to meet the needs of its current inhabitants, a new chapter began. Thisledoo is an ode to the original dwelling, staying true to its humble beginnings while elevating it with modern amenities,” Murray said.

“The brief required a new build that was sensitive to what came before it… but we [still] wanted to create something that maintained all the charm of what had been there for decades, but [with] an update for modern-day living.”

She said burnished concrete floors, locally sourced hardwood, passive solar design principles and extensive low-e glazing were all used to complete the four-bedroom, two-living split level home.

A darker interior palette was used to ground the home and allow the vibrancy of the surrounding ferns and landscaped gardens to be the highlight of the experience.

“A challenge of this project was its immense amount of glazing, which can be an issue for energy ratings,” Murray said.

“Despite this fact, and by using high quality glass, protective eaves and thermal mass throughout the home, we were able to use the beautiful Phillippe Chimminee fireplace as a sculptural piece as it is not needed for warmth, even during the winter months.”

She said Thisledoo was an example of how sustainable living could be achieved without compromising on aesthetic or budget.

“Thisledoo shows that sustainable building practices can coexist with traditional values. It’s a reminder that history should not be forgotten when creating something new… it’s best celebrated in our work.

“The use of natural materials, energy-efficient design principles, and respect for its environment make it an ideal model for future builds looking for ways to become more eco-friendly without sacrificing budget or quality.”

Murray said the team looked forward to providing their services to anyone in the community looking to take a unique and sustainable approach to their living.

For more information, head to cooperandblake.com.au

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