Viridian glass maximises view, light and thermal efficiency for Sandy Bay hilltop residence

Viridian  glass was used extensively during the remodelling of a modest single storey dwelling into a luxurious two-level home.

Viridian ComfortPlus Clear double glazed glass was used for the full height ceiling to floor windows and doors at the Sonning House in Sandy Bay, Tasmania.

A key objective during the remodelling of the hilltop property was to maximise the spectacular panoramic views overlooking Hobart and the Derwent River.

Architect Maria Gigney explains that the owners wanted a more modernist look with clean lines, minimal eaves, maximum solar exposure and a thermally efficient envelope. The clients also wanted to increase the size of the house to accommodate their large family and guests.

Beginning with an 18-month design and approval process followed by an 18-month build, the 350m² spacious home now houses two bedrooms, rumpus, library, bathroom, laundry and a double height entry and gallery area at the ground level, while the first floor has the kitchen, open plan living and dining, office and master bedroom complete with ensuite and walk-in robe.

To meet the objective of maximised views and to take advantage of the northerly aspect of the site, Viridian glass was chosen to play an intrinsic part in the overall design. The glass has been teamed with refined neutral materials, honed block work, oak floors, Celery Top framed doors and Huon Pine balustrade railings to produce a clean, crisp design with an elegant streamlined aesthetic.

Timber and glass were carefully placed to create a sense of fluidity between internal spaces, enabling visual access through all spaces to the views.

Glazing was an important part of the design to meet the primary objective of ensuring uninterrupted views to the Derwent River and over Hobart from all living spaces and bedrooms.

With such a large volume of glazing required throughout the home, double glazed Viridian ComfortPlus Clear glass was specified extensively for optimal thermal efficiency.

A major highlight of the home is the curved glass forming the north corner of the house. Created by GlassShape New Zealand, the curved glass panels were made from Viridian ComfortPlus Clear for thermal efficiency and visual consistency. 

Highlights of the glazing using Viridian ComfortPlus Clear glass:

• Curved wall of glass to the north corner of the house on the upper and lower floors provides expansive views
• Double glazed units were framed with Capral aluminium framing systems used in conjunction with large custom made framed glazed doors plus internal and external sliding doors
• Extensive glazing in the double height entry and gallery area
• Double glazed glass installed into aluminium glazing adaptors above and adjacent to the timber door
• Roof light running from above the gallery and returning down the south west façade to floor level maximises natural light and enhances the views
• Breezeway Altair power louvres on the same façade allow natural ventilation to the gallery area
• Frameless toughened glass balustrades with a square celery top rail used internally on the stairs and mezzanine level as well as externally
• Well placed curved glass panels to both the open plan living/dining area and rumpus room offer river views

According to Maria, the glazing delivers several benefits in terms of design flexibility and energy efficiency to the home.

From a design perspective, the glazing allowed them to play with the facade and to express the solid vertical elements by separating them from each other using the glass. The roof light also introduces natural light into the inner parts of the home.

Thanks to its energy-efficient features, the home has achieved over 5 stars in an energy assessment.

In addition to the extensive double glazing, the home features ESD elements such as concrete floors for thermal mass and reverse veneer solid concrete internal wall panels with an externally insulated skin.

The home is also delivering good results in thermal performance, keeping the interiors cool with effective cross ventilation.