- Area: 83 m²
- Year: 2014
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Photographs:Derek Swalwell
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Manufacturers: Resene
Text description provided by the architects. The front of the home was retained and a two-storey extension added by Techne Architects. The extension was based on the form of a contemporary shipping container and the interior designed to reflect a simple, utilitarian aesthetic, that plays with materiality, bold graphic shapes in robust finishes injected with strong blocks of colour.
The two areas – original front and new extension – are separated by a perforated black folded screen that acts as not only a visual separation, but also an interesting feature. Cutouts in the screen are designed specifically for colourful Dinosaur Design vases. A mid-grey tile separates and defines the step up from old to new, while three irregular sized box-like timber steps lead to the upstairs, then solid messmate flooring flows through the new extension.
Painted timber lining boards extend from the living room ceiling into the undercover outdoor area to give a continuous detail and block of colour. Bringing more colour into the home are pendant lights, stairs in bright orange carpet, a large sliding door with a bespoke paint-drip feature and unusual powder-coated mirrors (three different colours in the kids’ bathroom and a large bright-blue mirror in the ensuite).
Further enhancing the interior’s robust, graphic appeal, is the perforated steel mesh paneling, white brick finishes on the fireplace, the deep boxed timber framed window in the living area, terrazzo and graphic tile patterns in white/grey tones and exposed edge detailing. Pale woodgrain used on the joinery throughout softens the look, while folded leather handles and custom cork mirrors in the bathroom add an element of interest and raw luxury.
Checkerboard black-and-white wall paneling is a strong graphic detail that not only adds the playful element the client wanted, but also a personal touch. The client owns pubs in Melbourne, so wanted a display solution for his wine and beer. The checkerboard feature is a laminate box that surrounds the pantry and features 14 circular cutouts for wine, which can be accessed only from behind the pantry. The garden was designed by Annabel Drew as a lush green garden with grassed areas and old railway sleepers.
