Tag Archives: Homes

Design: Boronia House In Bellevue Hill, Australia

Celebrating colour and materiality, Boronia House is the contemporary reimagination of a pre-existing dwelling. With interior design by Esoteriko, the family home captures an uplifting and lively environment.

Video Timeline: 00:00 – Introduction to Boronia House 00:30 – The Entry to The Home 00:46 – Starting with A Gallery Space 01:00 – Refurbishment of The Kitchen 01:38 – The Custom Metal Work 01:54 – The Clients and The Brief 02:07 – Custom Pieces from Local Artisans 02:40 – Rising Up Into The Bedrooms 03:14 – Connecting The Landscape and The Living 03:48 – An Elevated and Extended Living Area 04:20 – Living Through Colour

Located in the harbourside suburb of Bellevue Hill, Boronia House is surrounded by expansive properties interspersed by leafy sections of green. Mirroring the height of the neighbouring houses, the family home is comfortably settled within its immediate built context. In the kitchen, walnut panelling clads the cabinetry, complementing the dark limestone flooring of the original dwelling.

An impressive double-height void frames the kitchen island bench from above, presenting the piece as the dramatic focal point of the family home. Guiding residents up through the void is a set of floating concrete stairs. Throughout Boronia House, Esoteriko forges a strong relationship between the home and the natural vistas beyond. On the ground floor, outdoor joinery bridges the conceptual gap between family home and garden. An external seating area increases engagement with the landscape, alongside a new staircase and elevated swimming pool.

Embracing a natural connection alongside colour, Esoteriko develops the liveability of a family home. Boronia House enhances everyday life, prompting residents to adopt a more relaxed and explorative means of occupying space.

Design: ‘Sunrise House’ In Melbourne, Australia

Designing an architect’s own home and office space, Jolson architecture and interior design studio combines two distinct spaces that remain inherently separate. With a fascination of blurring lines between architecture, interior design and landscape design, Sunrise House becomes an exploration of how each discipline crafts a sense of space within.

Video timeline: 00:00 – Masterworks Advertisement 00:11 – Introduction to Sunrise House 00:42 – The Original 1950s Confectionary Factory 01:01 – Combining A Family Home and A Commercial Office Space 01:17 – Placing An Emphasis on Natural Light and Garden Space 01:27 – A Sanctuary with Sculptural Elements 02:19 – A Connection Between Outside and Inside 02:52 – Moving Vertically Through The House 03:32 – Connection to History Through The Gym and Courtyard Space 04:14 – Living With Colour, Texture and Memories 04:55 – A Reaction to The Original Facade 05:25 – Masterworks Advertisement

Sitting on the edge of an industrial commercial zone, Sunrise House by Jolson architecture and interior design studio was once a 1950s sweet factory before becoming an architect’s own home. Greenery covers the building’s façade, offering a dynamic sense of style not often seen within Melbourne’s cityscape. Yet inside, the connection from inside to out is made through an open floor plan that allows for the family to easily transition between living areas.

From the entrance, the office and ground level of the house honours the original build by keeping the concrete, paring it back to expose the aggregate. Although, in spaces where new concrete was poured, Jolson celebrates the new markings with memories of his own family, establishing the structure as an architect’s own home as well as a workplace. Retaining as much of the honesty and texture of the original building was key to bringing forth vibrancy.

The main design idea in the open living space was to insert three walls. Black joinery adorns one wall containing a concealed kitchen, another a large artwork that celebrates the history of the building and a third wall containing a luxurious fireplace. Through optimising the entirety of the volume within, Sunshine House becomes more than an architect’s own home, it becomes an art form. Jolson balances life, texture and colour – further complementing the minimal design aspects of an architect’s own home.

Australian Architecture: ‘Jan Juc Studio’ Home Tour

Sitting underneath the eucalyptus trees, a slice of paradise awaits. As an architect’s own home, Jan Juc Studio creates a subtle ease between home and work life, whilst also establishing a humble presence within the surrounding landscape.

Video timeline: 00:00 – Roborock’s S7MaxV Ultra 00:15 – Introduction to Jan Juc Studio 00:41 – The Redevelopment of Jan Juc 01:08 – The Exterior vs. The Interior 01:36 – Creating Openness Through Doors 01:57 – Maximising What’s Available 02:23 – Multifunctional Screens 03:02 – The Materiality of The House 03:51 – Designing on The Move 04:10 – Surveying The Landscape 04:47 – Sun Filtration 05:14 – Architectural Clarity and A Humble Presence 05:52 – Roborock’s S7MaxV Ultra

Eldridge Anderson Architects draws inspiration from the architectural design they saw while travelling through Japan and incorporate nods to the built proportions, finishes and materials they experienced. In establishing an architect’s own home, Eldridge Anderson Architects creates architectural clarity by maximising what already existed.

Surrounding the façade of the home with wide timber screens made of pre-aged wood enables an indoor-outdoor connection. Able to adjust to the changing weather and seasons, the sliding timber screens and opening doors offer a range of different lighting configurations throughout the day.

When opened, the diffusing of light through the bedrooms creates a relaxed start to the day and, by afternoon, the warm golden glow reflects off the blackbutt flooring throughout, creating a gilded living space. Complementing the interior of an architect’s own home, the recycled blackbutt is used for doors and floors which harmonise with the timber façade and the eucalyptus trees surrounding the exterior. Eldridge Anderson Architects engages with an open plan living that allows for an architect’s own home to flow from room to room while optimizing upon liveable space throughout the home.

Encouraging a journey through light diffused halls, Eldridge Anderson’s design emphasises the idea of open plan living with rear doors that slide open to the backdrop of vegetation and landscape of Jan Juc Studio. As the sun dances through the coastal home, timber and humble material choices combine to establish a composed presence.

Striving for architectural clarity, Eldridge Anderson Architects’ Jan Juc Studio presents a refined execution of ideas that were inspired by travelling through Japan, materials that help interchange moods throughout the day and the connection of an architect’s own home to the surrounding landscape.

Architecture: Grandview House In Sydney, Australia

Balancing a striking southern perspective with a warm internal character, Grandview House overcomes the limitations of its former self. Created by Ian Bennett Design Studio, the contemporary home undergoes the tactful renovation of a pre-existing family dwelling.

Video timeline: 00:00 – Introduction to Grandview House 00:40 – A Walkthrough The Contemporary Home 01:16 – Altering The Existing House 01:42 – An Introduction to The Owners 02:14 – A Collaboration of Architect and Owner 02:50 – A Floor Plan Designed for Family Living 03:31 – Family Conscious Design 03:57 – Utilising Durable Materials 04:55 – The Architect’s Favourite Part of The Home

Situated on the southern side of the Mona Vale headland, Grandview House once existed as a cold and uninviting residence with only minimal access to sunlight. The collaboration between Ian Bennett Design Studio and the clients – one of whom heads Northern Beaches Constructions – sees the house transformed into a warm and contemporary home, capitalising on views of Mona Vale Beach, Long Reef and Manly.

Entering the contemporary home, a walkway bridge sits above the ground floor, delineating two voids which allow sunlight to stream into the home. Further into the residence, the kitchen-living-dining area flows towards the external southern aspect. Upstairs, two children’s bedrooms branch off from the bridge, whilst the southern side of the house encloses a master suite, ensuite and an additional children’s bedroom.

An open plan format expands the visual field, softening the sense of transition between spaces and encouraging residents to explore the contemporary home. Voids crafted to the east and west draw natural light into the residence – as do apertures inserted into the awning – with louvre windows maximising cross-ventilation. Crafting authoritatively in a maritime location, Ian Bennett Design Studio nods towards its working history in the Northern Beaches region. Grandview House stands as an intuitive response to its site; a contemporary home that effortlessly captures natural light and inspiring southern views. 00:00 – Introduction to Grandview House 00:40 – A Walkthrough The Contemporary Home 01:16 – Altering The Existing House 01:42 – An Introduction to The Owners 02:14 – A Collaboration of Architect and Owner 02:50 – A Floor Plan Designed for Family Living 03:31 – Family Conscious Design 03:57 – Utilising Durable Materials 04:55 – The Architect’s Favourite Part of The Home

Home Design: ‘Wyoming House’ In Kew, Australia

Embodying a specific set of client stipulations, Wyoming is a modernist-inspired home with innate flexibility. Crafted by Inarc Architects, the open plan residence exceeds expectations for a house of its kind. Located in the Victorian suburb of Kew, in close proximity to the Yarra River,

Video Timeline: 00:00 – The Local Project’s Print Publication 00:14 – Introduction to Wyoming 00:55 – A Walkthrough Wyoming 01:11 – Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works Plan from 1911 01:29 – Sticking to A Strict Brief 02:14 – Matching Old to New 02:50 – Interior Lighting 03:21 – Creating A Gallery Space 04:12 – Adopting Modernist Principles 04:50 – Inarc’s Favourite Aspects of Wyoming 05:42 – Subscribe to The Local Project’s Print Publication

Wyoming stands as a rejuvenated dwelling. Originally built in 1911, the settlement of the modernist-inspired home proposes the unique experience of feeling close to the city whilst accessing the countryside lifestyle. The clients requested that the modernist-inspired home include areas for entertaining. To this end, Inarc Architects reimagines the original front rooms of the house as entertainment spaces which flow to the modern addition. In response to the clients’ passion for the outdoors,

Inarc Architects reinforces the sense of privacy attached to the garden space. An old hedge on the northern boundary is replaced by one of a similar style, exuding a sense of visual protection. Aesthetically, the modernist-inspired home champions white, as per the client’s request. White honed granite floors combine with classic Italian carrara to establish the limited colour palette.

Benefitting from meticulous spatial planning – both indoors and out – Wyoming offers a flowing, effortless living experience. Inarc Architects answers the clients’ requests with rigour, resulting in a highly-personal, modernist-inspired home.

Architectural Tour: ‘Way House’ In Perth, Australia

An architectural family house, The Way House stands steeped in history. Originally crafted by Darryl Way Architect, the renovated dwelling by vittinoAshe draws upon its architectural heritage in embracing its future.

Video timeline: 00:00 – Introduction to The Way House 00:28 – The History Behind The Way House 01:16 – The Benefits of Open Plan Living 02:01 – Architectural Features of The Way House 02:24 – Creating Space Through Glass 02:37 – A Tribute to the Original House 03:42 – Introducing Artedomus Products 05:26 – The Embodiment of Family

Settled in close proximity to Perth’s Freshwater Bay, The Way House represents a significant family legacy. Built in 1975 by the client’s father – an established architect – the home stands as a labour of love. As an architectural family house, it was important to respect the built narrative of the residence when executing the modern-day renovation. Internally,

The Way House indicates its status as an architectural family house, with old architectural elements effortlessly cohered with the new. The new studio pays homage to the original house through the replication of clean lines, materiality and finishes. Working with Artedomus – esteemed supplier of natural stone and ceramic tiles – DWA Architects highlights The Way House as an architectural family house. Artetech Ombra Carbone porcelain panels are used as a minimal means of ornamenting the kitchen, positioned in striking contrast to red recycled bricks.

In the bathroom, Artedomus INAX tiles communicate a minimal design language to foster a sense of serenity. Crafting a house that embodies a meaningful history, DWA Architects invests in an ongoing residential narrative. An architectural family house, The Way House articulates the important role that architecture plays in family life and provides an inviting space for the next generation.

Architect’s Tour: Toorak Residence In Melbourne

Approached with experience and discernment, Toorak Residence is an architectural dwelling with a considered interiority. Designed by Architecton, the luxury home embraces its context, enabling seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor space.

Video Timeline: 00:00 – The Local Project Print Publication 00:15 – Introduction to Architectural Toorak Residence 01:02 – The Levels and Layers of the Home 01:46 – Blurring the Lines Between Living and Landscape 02:30 – The Material Palette of the Architectural Home 03:15 – A Sculptural Champagne Cork 03:28 – Lighting Considerations 04:08 – A Range of Versatile Living Areas 04:44 – Ageing Like a Fine Champagne 05:13 – Subscribe to The Local Project Print Publication

Located in the affluent suburb of Toorak in close proximity to the Melbourne CBD, Toorak Residence is strong element in the impressive architectural environment. Marked externally by a bold sculpture, the home sits at over 1000 square metres and features three spacious levels. Arriving at Toorak Residence, the process of entry is elongated by carefully layered experiential details. Beyond the front gate lies an informal garden space – a tactile composition of pleasant greenery – which effortlessly navigates residents towards the main entrance. Stepping inside the architectural home, the material palette is intentionally restrained. Architecton champions concrete, natural stone, timber and glass as the ideal canvases for light and bases for architectural detail. Flowing out towards the landscape whilst internally welcoming sunlight, Toorak Residence does justice to the rigour of Artchitecton. A house tour reveals the architectural residence to be a peaceful dwelling, encouraging intuitive patterns of movement for superior living.

Greek Architecture: ‘O Lofos’ Residence On Crete

O Lofos*: The green, wild Cretan landscape and the richness and heritage of traditional crafts define this new, thoroughly contemporary residential design by Block722. Sat on the northern foothills of Thrypti mountain within the Greek island’s eastern side, the project is a commission by a private client.

The main home is divided into two low buildings linked by a semi-enclosed area with an envy-inducing water feature | O Lofos by Block722 | STIRworld
The main home is divided into two low buildings linked by a semi-enclosed area with an envy-inducing water featureImage: Ana Santl

It called for a 280 sq m home on a slope, including two guestrooms and generous outdoors areas. Balancing the needs of the brief with the natural setting that combines vistas of mountains, plains, and the Mediterranean Sea, was critical in the architects’ design solution. The architecture was driven by desire to create a modern house that is discreet and respectful to its surroundings.

The built is in harmonious continuation of the Cretan context | O Lofos by Block722 | STIRworld
The built is in harmonious continuation of the Cretan context

Negotiating the site’s angle through levels instead of steps was also critical in moulding a relaxing environment that embraces its setting.
A path down a slope from the main road leads visitors to the residence’s entrance. The complex’s size is cleverly broken down into smaller volumes, which are interconnected through circulation routes and in-between spaces – some indoors and some open-air. The main home is divided into two low buildings linked by a semi-enclosed area with a water feature.

The design merges natural materials that are often used in the local vernacular, such as wood and stone. At the same time, the atmosphere is distinctly contemporary, blending Block722’s inherent Scandinavian sensibility and organic minimalism with Japanese architecture influences. This nod to Japan unfolds through the design’s refreshing simplicity of clean, almost austere lines that balance the materials’ natural, tactile nature and the overall craft-rich approach. The powerful Greek sunlight helps define shapes and surfaces,

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Australian Architecture: ‘Fitzroy Bridge House’

A modern house, Fitzroy Bridge House is a work of collaboration led by Matt Gibson Architecture + Design. Featuring a glass bridge – from which the project receives its name – the home emerges as a considered and personal dwelling that celebrates its older architectural elements.

Video timeline: 00:00 – The Local Project’s Print Publication 00:20 – The Name Behind Fitzroy Bridge House 00:57 – South Fitzroy Heritage Precinct 01:36 – Moving Through the Home 01:53 – Dissolution of Interior and Exterior 02:16 – The Bridge 02:40 – The Rear Retreat 03:14 – Involvement of the Clients and Their Non-Negotiables 03:57 – Key Sustainable Moves 04:51 – The Cellar

Located in the southern Fitzroy heritage precinct, Fitzroy Bridge House sits an enviable two kilometres from the Melbourne CBD. The residence occupies a long, thin site and is comprised of distinct pavilions, encapsulating both the pre-existing architecture and the work of the modern house.

As Fitzroy Bridge House is situated in a heritage overlay, the exterior of the home could not be altered in relation to the front two rooms. Entering the home, residents move through the Victorian-style environments before reaching the rear architecture of the modern house that features a refined internal courtyard settled into the dining room interior design.

Connecting two pavilions, the glass bridge forms the focal point of the modern house. The bold feature provides a view down to the manicured garden in the Japanese-inspired courtyard – a fine work of landscape architecture requested by the client and executed by Robyn Barlow. A product of collaboration, Fitzroy Bridge House is closely connected to the client. Warm, inviting and personal, the modern house expresses its own built narrative, enabling the client to retell the story of its creation for years to come.