This thread of Godsell’s exploration of regional typology began to coalesce in the design of the Carter/Tucker house. Here in particular, the ideas of an inner room and enclosed verandah that permeate his work were explored for their multi-cultural relevance:
In traditional Chinese architecture the aisle is a fluid outer building continuous around the perimeter of the inner building. In traditional Japanese architecture the aisle (gejin) is not continuous when added to a structure (hisashi) but is fluid space when an inner building is partitioned (hedate) to cause an aisle to be formed. The traditional outback Australian homestead is also surrounded by fluid space (verandah) which is sometimes partly enclosed by flywire or glass to form an indoor/outdoor space (sunroom).[1]
This fusion of cultural stimuli was further abstracted in the Peninsula House. The verandah became a protective outer shell that can be occupied and manipulated. The building can be closed down or opened to alter the living space and its relationship to the surrounding environment.
Image | © Chad Schwartz
[1] From a written statement provided by the architect.
CJS 