Family build beautiful home next to train line

Set along a train line, this new home project by Melbourne-based practice Clare Cousins Architects takes the "challenge accepted" approach to create a private family retreat. 

Before Rail House, the site's previous home was purchased and then demolished by VicTrack for its track-widening project. A slightly narrower, 586-square-metre wedge shaped remained. The site reportedly needed council approval to ensure its integration into the neighbourhood, which had resulted in several knock-backs for small apartment blocks and terrace houses. 

A couple with two young children bought the block and engaged the design team at Clare Cousins Architects to create liveable home which responded to the challenges of the site. The architect's first concern was to address the acoustic concerns and its unique triangular site.

After consulting with an acoustic engineer, the team designed a blockwork sound wall along the side of the site that borders the train line. This works to absorb as much sound as possible. The three-sided plan also backs onto the western boundary and train line to focus on a protected east-facing courtyard.

Another small internal courtyard filters natural light and ventilation into the internal spaces.

Concrete block walls inside, carry on the work of the "protective wall" from the trains, while the blockwork façade acoustically protects internal spaces and provides privacy from the street. 

 This view shows the three-sided site plan. Photography Peter Bennetts