Horse Shoe Project

This beautiful riverside property is at Cobram, on the southern banks of Victoria's Murray River.

The property sits on an 1800m high levy bank overlooking a lagoon feeding to the Murray River, hence the project name, Horse Shoe Lagoon.

Outdoor living was a priority, so privacy had to be offered from high tourist traffic along the River road. This requirement resulted in us putting forward a horse-shoe design for the house footprint.

The house had two frontages: one to address the court and the other facing the River road. Court entry was to be private.

Generous car accommodation was required for multiple cars and farm vehicles. Garages have been designed to not dominate the street frontage and to shield the house from the harsh north-Victorian sun.

Relief from extreme climate heat had to be carefully considered, so we also incorporated plenty of shading devices into the design. Three-metre ceilings, along with the open horse-shoe design, enable good crossflow ventilation. The high open entry has been designed functionally for shading, airflow and to impress. This gives the home a sense of address and combats the 'overpowering' garages.

Minimal maintenance was of paramount importance, as farming commitments consume the majority of the couple's lives.

Equally important was plenty of secure play/swimming facilities, given numerous young children regularly visit.

Easterly key views were to the bend in the River, so we designed the meals/kitchen area focusing on this aspect. Bedrooms are all located off the south wall for reduced evening heat. Upstairs are the main bedroom 2, plus balcony and gallery.