Fizmer: Turning an ambitious design into a High-Performing Home
Image credit: Josh Shinner Photography
When Josh and Anna came to us, they had an ambitious vision for a new home and separate studio that would sit naturally within its surroundings.
Realising that vision presented a number of structural challenges. The design called for generous open-plan spaces, expansive glazing, a dramatic cantilever and a complex roof form — all of which had to work together without compromising the character of the design, while meeting the high standards of performance and construction quality expected of the finished home.
“JAM’s approach to identifying structural options early on with the client’s priorities in mind offered huge value, establishing a cost effective and efficient delivery route while making our technical coordination significantly easier.”
Solving complexity through collaboration
We developed a steel frame for the main house and studio, providing the flexibility needed to achieve the open spaces, large areas of glazing and cantilevered corner.
A detailed 3D structural model allowed us to coordinate the structure with the architecture from an early stage and resolve complex details before construction.
The roof presented a particular challenge. The original geometry could not be achieved efficiently with the proposed steel frame, so we worked closely with the architects to refine the eaves profile. The result preserved the character of the original design while creating a more practical, buildable solution.
Engineering that supports the whole home
Our structural design was also carefully coordinated with the building fabric to support the home’s high levels of thermal performance and long-term efficiency.
We have remained involved throughout construction, providing site support and helping the team resolve challenges as they arise.
The result is a structural solution that makes the ambitious design work in practice, supporting its performance, simplifying construction and preserving the character of the home.
That benefit of of having us on hand to support during construction became particularly clear to the client when construction started.
“Their subsequent coordination with the fabricators was excellent, ensuring that the frames could go up in just 8 days. JAM’s site visits have also proved incredibly helpful in confirming the construction is to the design.”
Building your own home is a big decision!
Make sure the structure isn’t one you have to worry about.
