A new build in a prestigious older suburb, this home is a sister to the Melvista Rd project and was subdivided from its large corner block. The owners wanted to create something modern in contrast to the heritage-listed Melvista home, but with references to the European and Middle Eastern artistic traditions that they loved.
As with the Melvista home, our design grew around the concept of ornamental metal screens, inspired by French wrought iron. The screens wrap around the central living space and give the home the feeling of a shaded garden courtyard, protected from the elements but still open to the air and filled with filtered light. The patterning of the screens and bathroom tiling is inspired by traditional Islamic and Victorian art, echoing the delicate mathematics of nature. We incorporated other nature motifs significant to the owners into the ironwork as well; the Tree of Life from Middle Eastern mysticism and the Edwardian swallow from the leadlight front door bring rambling movement to the interior surfaces. At night the lighting effect is inverted, transforming the home into an intricate lantern which illuminates the outdoor living spaces and pool.
As a family with teenage children, it was important to the owners to separate the private areas of the house. The kids bedrooms and living spaces are upstairs, while the downstairs master suite has a more secluded feeling with its own outlook over the pool. We also integrated sections of glazed brick in reference to the Melvista house, and a glass-encased fireplace as a unique feature in the entry.