Australian architect Glenn Murcutt recently built a family home, called Donaldson House, on the Palm Beach peninsula, a small region in the bush north of Sydney. The forests of that region are notoriously dry through much of the year, and wildfires are unfortunately common. As such, Murcutt designed Donaldson House with fire-proof features that don't detract from its aesthetic beauty.
The majority of the exterior of Donaldson House is covered in black zinc panels, which are flame retardant. All the plywood walls must be covered by metal skins because of similar local regulations. Further, the home is set low and placed directly beside a tall sandstone boulder, giving it a natural added defense against fires that might come through the area.
Impervious Zinc-Clad Homes
Donaldson House by Glenn Murcutt is Resistant to Wildfires
Trend Themes
1. Flame Retardant Architecture - Incorporating fire-proof materials in architectural designs to protect against wildfires while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
2. Regulation-compliant Exterior Design - Using metal skins or other approved materials to meet local regulations regarding fire protection in building exteriors.
3. Strategic Natural Barriers - Leveraging natural elements such as boulders or other physical features to provide additional protection against wildfires.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture & Construction - Opportunities for architects and construction companies to innovate and develop fire-resistant building materials and designs.
2. Building Regulations - Increased demand for compliant building materials and designs that meet fire safety regulations.
3. Wildfire Prevention & Management - Growing need for technologies and strategies that can mitigate the risk of wildfires and protect homes and structures.