Proposed Two-Storey Dwelling | Hereford Street, Box Hill | S Ghuman & R Kaur
Project Overview
This proposed two-storey dwelling at Hereford Street, Box Hill presents a refined contemporary design focused on clean geometry, balanced proportions, and functional living. The façade combines smooth rendered finishes, warm timber accents, and expansive glazing to enhance natural light and street presence. A strong horizontal emphasis is achieved through cantilevered forms and a glass-balustrade balcony. Thoughtfully planned internal spaces ensure comfort, privacy, and seamless indoor–outdoor connection while aligning with local planning guidelines and modern lifestyle needs.
Problem Statement
The project addresses the challenge of designing a contemporary two-storey dwelling that meets modern lifestyle expectations while complying with local planning controls and enhancing the streetscape of Hereford Street, Box Hill. Key considerations include balancing building scale and massing on the site, ensuring privacy for occupants and neighbours, and achieving optimal natural light and ventilation. The design also responds to functional requirements such as efficient circulation, integrated parking, and indoor–outdoor connectivity, while maintaining a refined architectural expression that aligns with the character and residential context of the surrounding neighbourhood.
Site Analysis & Planning Constraints
The initial stage focused on understanding the site conditions, orientation, setbacks, and surrounding context to inform the overall design approach. Challenges included working within a compact 300 sqm lot while addressing solar access, driveway placement, and private open space requirements. Careful analysis ensured the proposed dwelling responded appropriately to street alignment, neighbouring properties, and council controls, forming a strong foundation for compliant and efficient design development.
Concept Design & Spatial Planning
The concept design phase prioritised functional zoning, separating public and private spaces while maintaining fluid circulation throughout the dwelling. A key challenge was integrating generous living areas, garage access, and service zones without compromising spatial comfort. The final layout achieves a balanced ground floor arrangement with clear visual connections to outdoor areas, supporting everyday living and long-term usability.
Façade Design & Architectural Character
Upper-level planning focused on accommodating bedrooms, family spaces, and balconies while managing privacy and overlooking impacts. The challenge lay in positioning windows and balconies to minimise visual intrusion to adjoining properties. Strategic placement of rooms, setbacks, and screening elements allowed the first floor to maintain comfort and compliance while delivering well-proportioned private spaces.
Compliance, Sustainability & Technical Resolution
Developing the external form required balancing modern architectural character with local height and massing controls. The key challenge was achieving a strong contemporary façade without exceeding the prescribed height plane or creating visual bulk. This was resolved through horizontal articulation, material contrast, and clean lines, resulting in a refined street presence that complements the surrounding residential context.
Detailed Documentation & Approval Strategy
Ensuring environmental compliance was a critical stage, particularly in managing overshadowing, daylight access, and energy efficiency. Shadow analysis confirmed minimal impact on neighbouring properties during key times of the year, while BASIX and NCC requirements guided material and construction decisions. The challenge was aligning performance standards with design intent, ultimately achieving a compliant and environmentally responsible outcome.
