House in Rodd PointCompleted 2024Photography: Martin SiegnerInterior Finishes and FFE: Studio Trio
Landscape: Pepo Botanic Design
Nestled in the quiet neighbourhood of Rodd Point on Wangal country, our brief was to design a contemporary family home that would adapt to the needs of a growing family in both the immediate and long-term.
The recycled brick base of the new two-storey home echoes the dilapidated brick bungalow that once stood in its place, and is softened by a landscaped garden entry. Lightweight gable forms complete the architecture in response to the increasing mix of contemporary styles belonging to the neighbourhood.
The design is centered around a main axis that begins at a generous timber entry door, offering direct views of the rear garden upon entry. This axial spine serves as the organizing principle on both floors, guiding all secondary circulation throughout the home.
On the ground floor, a music room doubles as a guest room and overlooks the leafy trees in the front garden, while the main living spaces terminate the axial spine with a view to the rear garden and pool. The spatial arrangement of the open plan layout creates intimate zones to define and accommodate the family’s daily life activities as well as their love of entertaining.
A secret garden, nestled behind the pool, reinforces the client’s desire to have quiet spaces to retreat to, whilst serving as a beautifully green backdrop to the living spaces.
The axial spine is replicated on the first floor, where boundaries between rooms and hallways are fluid and views are framed to neighbourhood rooftops beyond. A voluminous, skylit vaulted ceiling over the stair draws the eye up and lets the light in.
Rooms have been designed to be both functional as well as spontaneous - opportunities exist for family members to find their place both individually and communally throughout the home.
