Houzz Tour: A Sleek, Contemporary Home in Harmony With Nature
Earthy materials are used to create a cool, modern new build for a Melbourne family
The family living on this stunning site near Melbourne initially requested an uncomplicated rectangular home made of symmetrical spaces filled with sunlight. But the best views face away from the sun, so as the project evolved, Robson Rak Architects worked with the clients on a more dynamic design that follows the site’s natural shape. The result is a home that assimilates into the landscape, drawing attention to its surroundings rather than its architecture.
Houzz at a Glance
Who lives here A couple and their 2 children
Location Victoria, Australia
Size 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Houzz at a Glance
Who lives here A couple and their 2 children
Location Victoria, Australia
Size 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
A custom handle on the wood-panelled front door features the carved shapes of exotic animals. Two full-height windows on either side of the door bring in the view.
The clients’ favourite tree on the property determined the home’s plan and position. The master bedroom is centred on the tree; the rest of the house extends west from the bedroom.
This floor plan shows the new layout, framed by existing trees on three sides. The pool side of the house takes advantage of fewer trees and offers a clear view of the surrounding forest.
The architects divided the house into three zones based on function. The parent zone has a walk-in wardrobe, a bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and a study. The study faces north (the sunny side) and gets plenty of light, and can be accessed from the outside.
Pendant lights, Ligne Roset.
Pendant lights, Ligne Roset.
A bar with rammed-earth walls and a concrete floor greets guests near the front door. A fully working stainless steel kitchen with all modern amenities sits behind the sliding door to the left. This area also houses a bedroom, an en suite and a powder room.
Island tiles, Vogue, De Fazio Tiles. Splashback tiles, Jaipur reconstituted stone, Stone Italiana. Bar stools, Mark Tuckey.
Island tiles, Vogue, De Fazio Tiles. Splashback tiles, Jaipur reconstituted stone, Stone Italiana. Bar stools, Mark Tuckey.
Although the home’s shape had to be adjusted, the client’s desire for an honest material palette shines through. Most of the home’s construction is made with glass, wood and earth-based products.
Coffee tables, Robson Rak Architects.
Coffee tables, Robson Rak Architects.
Locally sourced sand makes up many of the internal walls. More than a foot thick with ⅓in-thick internal foam insulation strips, these walls help maintain a consistent temperature inside the home. They also have a four-hour fire rating – important for this dry, hot region.
The eaves shade the thin, high-level windows above the dining and living rooms. Double-glazed windows and doors keep the temperature consistent and reduce the need for heating or air conditioning.
Dining chairs, Thonet. Dining table, Mark Tuckey. Sculpture on dining table, Chris Rock.
Browse sensational swimming pools
Dining chairs, Thonet. Dining table, Mark Tuckey. Sculpture on dining table, Chris Rock.
Browse sensational swimming pools
The architects designed a lower zone for the children. It has two bedrooms, a shared en suite, a laundry and a second living space that opens directly onto the pool and pergola.
The pool is enclosed with a glass fence on three sides with an infinity edge to the south.
The pool is enclosed with a glass fence on three sides with an infinity edge to the south.
A large outdoor terrace makes the most of the forest views and is designed with entertaining in mind. The steps leading up to the grassy area double up for lounging; the family often places large cushions on them to enjoy sunny days and fire up the outdoor fireplace at night.
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Do you have zones in your home? Tell us how they work for you in the Comments below.
Get tips to style your outdoor space for a party
TELL US…
Do you have zones in your home? Tell us how they work for you in the Comments below.