The Courtyard is a development-led duplex project that challenges the typical limitations of compact sites and budget-conscious construction. Rooted in the belief that constrained conditions should not equate to compromised living quality, this design seeks to redefine what a duplex can offer.

Situated within a designated flood planning zone, the building was required to raise its finished floor level to meet compliance. This condition informed a subtle split-level entry sequence, where landscaping softens the elevation change and creates a more intuitive transition. Internally, the stair integrates with a custom bench and curved handrail at the entrance, turning a regulatory constraint into a crafted architectural feature that blends function, circulation, and detail. Above the staircase, a slender skylight aligned with the stair run introduces daylight deep into the home, allowing natural light to reach even the lowest level and greatly enhancing the spatial clarity and atmosphere.

At the heart of the plan lies a courtyard—an open-air void that transforms the spatial experience. It brings daylight and ventilation deep into the home, ensuring that even the centrally located bedrooms are light-filled and private, without facing neighbouring windows. The courtyard also illuminates lower-level utility spaces such as the laundry and pantry, eliminating the need for artificially lit service zones. Unlike many duplexes on the market, this design offers natural light to every single room—including all bathrooms—delivering a holistic, human-centred living environment.