Tandem's Melbourne house features folded cladding interrupted by rusty steel window frames

Zen Architects undertook a significant renovation of a family home in Melbourne, Australia, which the owners had occupied for over two decades. The original 2,150-square-foot house, characterized by a square, four-rooms-deep, and four-rooms-wide floor plan, suffered from poor natural light penetration and a lack of connection to its garden. The central areas were dark and underutilized, prompting the residents to arrange furniture along the perimeter in an attempt to be closer to the outdoors. The renovation aimed to resolve these issues by introducing a curved glass extension, drawing inspiration from the curvilinear designs of the nearby Mount Eagle Estate, established in 1914 by Marion Mahoney and Walter Burley Griffin. The architectural intervention involved sculpting a curved glass void into the living area, specifically designed to funnel light and nature deep into the home's interior. This new structure was carefully integrated behind the existing heritage facade and within the original footprint, minimizing its impact on the established garden and streetscape. The curved glass element brings the garden closer to all living spaces, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection. The family room was repositioned at the heart of the home, with the kitchen and dining area wrapping around the northern side of the new glass facade. The kitchen features reeded glass window backsplashes that softly filter light, while rounded edges on the timber joinery and benchtops create an open and inviting atmosphere. A high-level window in the dining area introduces dappled northwest light, partially obscured by tall pine trees outside. Deep eaves around the glass facade provide protection from intense summer sun, yet allow the winter sun to align with the teardrop-shaped extension, offering panoramic views as it descends. On the opposite side of the curving glass, a sunken living room receives abundant northern light, which radiates over the teardrop form. The lowered floor in this area, combined with a consistent ceiling height, creates a distinct sense of coziness and verticality, contrasting with the expansive and horizontal feel of the main living area. This variation in volume offers a fresh perspective of the landscape, with a specific window framing a centuries-old pre-settlement mahogany gum tree. The front section of the house was modernized and repurposed to accommodate an office and the main bedroom, complete with a walk-in robe and en suite. Two additional bedrooms, a bathroom, and a laundry area are situated along the southern side, now occupying better-proportioned rooms than in the original layout. The detailing and finishes from the kitchen are consistently applied throughout the wet areas of the house. Externally, a terrace and deck extend around the living areas, integrating the house with the sloping terrain and embedding it within the landscape. The deliberate absence of balustrades facilitates a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor environments. The material palette for the renovation, including off-white dry-pressed brick and dark stone flooring, was chosen to complement the predominantly masonry and stone residences found in the estate. These robust materials are softened by timber cladding, decking, and ceilings, reflecting the presence of significant gum trees. This material selection contributes to a warm, natural, and cozy interior that emphasizes the vibrant greens of the surrounding garden, drawing attention to the natural setting. #HomeRenovation #MelbourneArchitecture #CurvedGlassExtension #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ModernDesign #NaturalLight #ZenArchitects #GardenIntegration #SustainableDesign

The Newburgh Light House, an apartment building in Victoria, Australia, designed by Splinter Society, offers a highly sustainable housing solution on a challenging, almost unbuildable site adjacent to a historic train station. The project accommodates up to 21 residents across 10 levels, with each residence occupying a full level. The architects faced significant design complexities due to the site's lack of street access, a north facade directly bordering VicTrack land, and stringent fire, building methodology, acoustic, equitable light, and stability requirements. The architectural response to these constraints involved a 'mini-tower' typology, utilizing glass blocks as a primary material to fulfill both fire safety and lighting needs. Conceptually, the building's translucent facades, coupled with reflective interior finishes, create a lantern-like effect for the public realm while fostering an ethereal atmosphere within the residences. The design emphasizes modularity and a clean, simple aesthetic, often observed in dense urban environments, to address construction challenges. Prefabricated elements were incorporated into the north and south facades, which feature glass block panels and operable recessed glazing. This design maximizes natural light and views. The decision to use full translucency on these facades, combined with a minimal core, was critical for future-proofing access to light, particularly in scenarios where adjacent private land to the north might be developed. The ground level is constructed from concrete, chosen for its ability to withstand a potential train derailment, and includes integrated seating to activate a small coffee shop fronting the entry and a pedestrian railway link. Bluestone cobbles extend from the adjacent lane through to the pedestrian walkway, creating a complementary patterned surface and enhancing ground-floor permeability despite the compact plot. Client brief aimed to attract the 'leafy suburb down sizer' market, seeking safe, convenient accommodation with an 'inner city' feel. This led to a programmatic arrangement of full-level apartments with direct lift access and private car allotments. To broaden its appeal, especially given its proximity to the train station, the design incorporated separated bedrooms and bathrooms, the potential for a third separable room, and dedicated storage/bike space, catering to students or individuals sharing. This layout was not only functional but also instrumental in achieving required light levels, considering potential future development, and ensures excellent cross-ventilation. The interior material palette reinforces the architectural grid through timber paneling, natural stone, and ceramic tiles. The glass blocks provide a distinctive internal finish, creating dynamic light effects throughout the day. Textured glass doors and internal walls contribute to the permeability of light across the floor plate. The building includes a bespoke penthouse on the upper level and one two-level residence, offering unique living spaces despite the building's overall modular efficiency. The project demonstrates a balance between performance, scale, and site constraints, achieved through close collaboration among the design, consulting, and construction teams. By day, Newburgh Light House offers adaptable homes with abundant natural light; by night, it transforms into a beacon, illuminating the Auburn village and its historic train station. #AustralianArchitecture #ApartmentDesign #GlassBlockArchitecture #SustainableHousing #UrbanDevelopment #ModularConstruction #ModernApartments #ArchitecturalInnovation

The article details the renovation of a 1970s split-level row house in Hackney, London, undertaken by Archmongers, the architectural firm led by Johan Hybschmann and his wife, Anita Freeman. The project's primary goals were to modernize the home for contemporary living, enhance its energy efficiency, and introduce more natural light into the interior spaces. The renovation adheres to Archmongers' commitment to using honest, exposed materials and traditional wood joinery, incorporating a palette of brick, galvanized steel, cast concrete, and timber. Before the renovation, the house had remained largely untouched since the 1970s, retaining its original structural elements like masonry, timber framework, and exposed concrete. However, its layout was inefficient, marked by a ground-floor garage that created an awkward entrance and a constricted kitchen/dining area. The original design also featured excessive storage and limited daylight connection to the street, with most rooms facing the rear garden. Archmongers addressed these issues by extending the ground floor and converting the garage into more functional living spaces. A new in-situ cast concrete extension at the rear significantly expanded the kitchen and dining areas on the lower level. This extension's insulated slab not only provides thermal insulation but also forms a new garden terrace, which doubles as a structural foundation to help distribute the load of both the existing and new facades. The flat roof of this extension was designed to accommodate a green roof at the first-floor level, contributing to the home's sustainability and biodiversity. The renovation focused on opening up the three-floor structure to create a more spatially vertical feel. Plasterboard walls were removed to reveal the underlying structural logic of the house, making its various elements more legible. The underside of the stairs was exposed to enhance spatial clarity, and strategically placed internal windows were incorporated to introduce sight lines and flood the interior with natural light. The rear elevation was further opened up with sliding doors at ground level and a large new window on the first floor, offering views of the new green roof from the living room. The design draws inspiration from Northern European modernism, with specific references to architectural works in Hybschmann’s native Denmark, including Wohlert’s Louisiana Museum of Modern Art, Finn Juhl’s house in Ordrup, and Arne Jacobsen’s Søholm houses, as well as Alvar Aalto’s homes in Finland. The interior design features a harmonious blend of gray brick, white-washed walls, and natural timber finishes. These are complemented by bold accents of red in the exposed steel beams, columns, and handrails, and by the terra-cotta tiles used on the lower floor. Repeated rectilinear motifs are consistently applied throughout the material arrangement, contributing to a unified aesthetic. In terms of exterior enhancements, the rear garden and the wildflower green roof were planted with indigenous species. A new, small pond was added to encourage local wildlife. The planting scheme, designed by Anita Freeman, specifically aims to boost biodiversity within the property’s limited footprint. The renovation successfully transformed a dated 1970s house into a modern, energy-efficient home that maximizes natural light and space while maintaining a strong connection to its natural surroundings and modernist architectural principles. #LondonRenovation #SeventiesRowHouse #ArchitecturalRenovation #EnergyEfficiency #ModernistDesign #GreenRoof #ExposedMaterials #NaturalLight #SustainableDesign

In Melbourne's Armadale, amidst a streetscape of Victorian and Federation-style mansions, stands the Armadale Residence, a project by BE Architecture designed for a family seeking to downsize. The residence is notable for its substantial granite facade, weighing approximately 260 tonnes. Despite its mass, the silvery-grey, split-faced texture of the granite, characterized by quartz veins, lends a sense of weightlessness when light refracts across its surface, softening the modular design's hard lines. Large mechanical timber shades punctuate this stone sheath, complementing its organic feel and allowing daylight into the interior spaces. BE Architecture co-director Andrew Piva notes that the internal spaces are designed to be light and open, particularly the living area, which features fully retractable glazed doors that open onto an adjacent courtyard. The house occupies nearly the entire 537 sq m block, including a pool integrated with the rear wall. To manage the building's volume discreetly, the sleeping quarters, including additional bedrooms with en-suites for visiting adult children, are located on the upper level. A gym and a second study are positioned behind a subterranean double-garage, effectively concealing these areas from direct view. Landscape design, also handled by BE's in-house multi-disciplinary team, was crucial in creating an illusion of expansive outdoor space. A private Japanese garden adjoins the master bedroom's outdoor shower, while Mount Fuji trees line the front fence. This landscaping approach addresses the clients' desire for varied planted outlooks and terraces without the intensive maintenance associated with a full lawn. Throughout the residence, a juxtaposition of raw and refined materials is evident, with granite serving as a consistent element. For instance, flamed and brushed Torino Granite is used for the outdoor terrace, transitioning seamlessly into a honed, speckled version within the open-plan living area. The selection of a specialized stone mason by the builder, LBA Construction, underscored the importance of the stone's application, particularly in the master en-suite, where Fallow Granite was uniquely employed for custom bath and basin benches, engineered from solid blocks to achieve a dense, textural finish. An emotive quality is introduced through BE Architecture's manipulation of chiaroscuro. Generously proportioned doorways cast angular shadows, while a central oculus above the stairwell channels pure light, creating a crushed velvet-like appearance on the polished grey cement render of its curved walls. These sculpted planes stand out as the only non-linear elements in an otherwise linear construction, providing a striking visual contrast within the home's design. The granite facade itself is laid in a random brick bond pattern, incorporating three different-sized block profiles, a technique that references older brick-laying styles. This meticulous attention to detail extends to custom furnishings, such as the stainless steel kitchen benchtop, the elm dining table, and the Perspex ceiling light, all custom-designed by BE Architecture to integrate seamlessly with the architectural vision. The Armadale Residence exemplifies a sophisticated blend of natural materials, thoughtful spatial planning, and a nuanced interplay of light and shadow, resulting in a cohesive and thoughtfully designed family home. #ResidentialArchitecture #AustralianHome #GraniteFacade #MelbourneDesign #BEArchitecture #LuxuryLiving #CustomDesign #Materiality #DownsizingHome

The Roscommon House, located in a 1960s 'garden suburb' five miles west of Perth, Western Australia, draws significant inspiration from the area's modernist and brutalist architectural heritage. Neil Cownie Architects undertook extensive research into the local modernist buildings, identifying seventy still standing, after witnessing the demolition of a Brutalist concrete shell roof structure and a threat to demolish a beloved concrete kiosk. This spurred the architect to design a home that respects and converses with the local architectural ethos without merely replicating past styles. The suburb's history, characterized by wide blocks and substantial parklands, also influenced the design, particularly in the integration of landscaping. At 5,900 square feet, much of Roscommon House is single-story, occupying a significant portion of its lot. To compensate, the design cleverly incorporates 'pocket' courtyards and roof terrace gardens, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. This spatial arrangement is also driven by environmental concerns, designed to maximize winter solar penetration and capture cooling breezes. The exterior features a strong, street-facing facade made from board-formed concrete, with a solar array discreetly tucked on the roof. The custom front door is crafted from textured wood and accented with un-lacquered brass, encouraging a natural patina over time. Inside, the design maintains material consistency, extending the exterior concrete finish into the interiors. This is complemented by timber cabinetry and walls, as well as bespoke lighting and furnishings created by the architectural firm. The master bedroom suite is located upstairs, offering access to a roof terrace, while the main living spaces and other bedrooms are situated on the ground level. A basement provides additional space. Throughout the house, wall cladding and cabinetry utilize engineered timber from ABODO's Elements range, and the engineered wood floors are by Mafi. The living room features a steel stair railing and a window wall with a Mondrian pattern in its glazing, adding an artistic touch. Custom-designed pendant lights over the stairs echo the undulating recesses found in the concrete ceiling, a sinuous motif that reappears in various forms throughout the project. The kitchen island's shape is a direct reference to the local iconic beachside concrete kiosk, a building saved by community efforts. Curved ceilings gently hover above the stricter lines of wall paneling and inset shelves, creating a dynamic visual contrast. A rounded skylight above the stairs introduces natural light. Outside, the undulating lines are continued in the pool's shape and its overhead awning, further integrating the architectural theme with the landscape. Through this project and community engagement, Neil Cownie Architects aim to foster appreciation and awareness of the area's unique architecture, ensuring Roscommon House possesses a strong sense of belonging to its site and history. #BrutalistArchitecture #ModernistDesign #ConcreteHomes #AustralianArchitecture #SustainableDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #CustomInteriors #ArchitecturalHeritage #LandscapeIntegration

The "Inside Her Home" series offers a glimpse into the residences of everyday women, detailing their renting or homeownership experiences. This installment features Lauren Li, a 45-year-old interior designer residing in Ivanhoe East, Melbourne. She lives with her husband and three children in a three-bedroom, two-storey home with an additional granny flat, which they rent for $3,910 per month. Lauren describes her home as a mid-century modern dwelling, built in 1961, retaining much of its original architecture. She emphasizes a deep connection to the house, feeling it "chose her" and that she and her family are deeply content living there. Lauren’s home is situated approximately 10km north-east of Melbourne's Central Business District. She highlights the fair price for the rental and expresses a strong belief that renters invest significant care and effort into making their houses feel like home. She and her family have occupied the property for three years, and her appreciation for the space has only grown. The house holds historical significance, having been the former residence of Victoria's first female Supreme Court judge, the Honourable Rosemary Balmford, who lived there since 1963. Lauren attributes the home's positive atmosphere and abundant built-in bookshelves to its previous owner, noting Balmford’s pioneering role as the first female lecturer in the University of Melbourne’s law faculty. The layout of the home is particularly appealing to Lauren, featuring a spacious living room with a fireplace, which provides ample room for the family while maintaining a sense of togetherness. The property also offers lovely views of trees, a beneficial feature for Lauren and her husband, who both work from home. The kitchen retains its original 1960s charm, which Lauren appreciates. The house includes an elevated deck that has been the setting for numerous family gatherings and summer dinners, contributing to its cherished feel. Their 12-year-old daughter enjoys a room with an impressive view of the Yarra River, while her 11-year-old sister and three-year-old brother share the other bedroom. Lauren explains that their move to this particular house was almost serendipitous. When their previous apartment was put up for sale, they needed to find new accommodation swiftly. A friend connected them with a real estate agent, and upon seeing the Ivanhoe East property, Lauren immediately felt a strong desire to live there. Her attachment to the house is so profound that she declares she is "never going to leave," underscoring her long-term commitment to the home. The article concludes with an invitation for other individuals to submit their homes for inclusion in the "Inside Her Home" series, encouraging [email protected] to be contacted for submissions. #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #RentalProperty #MelbourneHomes #FamilyLiving #RealLifeStories #HomeTour

Architect David Hicks designed Woodend house, located in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria, Australia, drawing inspiration from European vernacular architecture, particularly villas found in the French, Tuscan, and Puglian countryside. The house features a deliberate windowless facade, a design choice Hicks frequently employs to create intrigue and privacy. This approach ensures that the dwelling's interior experience is revealed only upon entry, rather than from the exterior. The single-story home was created for an older couple seeking to downsize, who had previously owned another windowless property designed by Hicks. Access to the Woodend house is gained through a wrought-iron arched gate situated on the side of the building, leading to a portico and then into an entrance vestibule. The interior walls throughout the house are rendered in micro cement and finished with limewash, imparting a stone-like texture. A vintage chandelier, made from ruched Murano glass, is a focal point in the vestibule, suspended from a circular recess in the ceiling. A central corridor extends from the vestibule, providing access to all the other rooms within the residence. Among the rooms is a 'retreat' area, functioning as a relaxed study and sitting room. This space is furnished with an Eames lounge chair, a multi-armed light fixture by French designer Serge Mouille, and a fireplace framed by a Ceppo marble surround. The same Ceppo marble is utilized for shelves within two arched display niches, adding a cohesive aesthetic element. Double doors connect the retreat to the principal bedroom, which is appointed with luxurious touches including a velvet rug, a satiny headboard, and fluted glass wall sconces. Storage solutions in the bedroom are subtly integrated behind white lacquered panels. The principal bedroom also features an en-suite bathroom where surfaces are covered in pale Calacatta marble. Large sliding glazed doors at the rear of the bathroom offer views of a small brick courtyard, which is adorned with a miniature maple tree. The main living area, a more formal space, contains white armchairs and a curved baby pink sofa, with sheer linen curtains covering French doors that open to the garden. The kitchen, integrated into this area, includes simple white cabinetry and a breakfast island topped with Calacatta marble. The home's powder room showcases extensive use of Ceppo marble, covering the walls, floor, and washbasin with its distinctive pattern. The photography for Woodend house was captured by Shannon McGrath. The project exemplifies a trend in Australian architecture for homes with striking, often unconventional, facades. Other notable examples include the Birdwood house by Peter Besley, which features a perforated screen of terracotta brick and metal mesh, and the Bangalow Road House by Son Studio, characterized by a wall of timber louvres that echo traditional wooden beach shacks. These designs collectively demonstrate a focus on unique exterior treatments that often contrast with rich and private interior spaces. #AustralianArchitecture #DavidHicks #WoodendHouse #VictoriaAustralia #WindowlessFacade #InteriorDesign #LuxuryInteriors #Marble #ResidentialArchitecture

Krisna Cheung Architects has completed the 'Pergola Extension' project, a transformative renovation of a Victorian inner-city Melbourne property. This project aimed to convert an existing historic house into a generous and functional domestic hub for a local family, addressing the common habitability issues found in older Victorian homes in the area. The architectural team, led by principal Ray Cheung, drew inspiration from the house's original translucent polycarbonate rear garage façade, integrating this material into the new roof and ceiling of the living and kitchen areas. This design choice not only opened up the interior space towards the rear garden but also created the titular pergola, clearly distinguishing the extension as a contemporary addition. The use of contemporary shapes and materials for the pergola structure prominently highlights the new intervention as a modern layer upon the historic fabric. Inside, the design fosters an open-plan layout, achieved by repositioning the kitchen and merging the living and dining areas into a continuous, flowing space devoid of corridors or partitions. This seamless integration of interior spaces with the external planted areas creates a sense of spaciousness and connection to nature. Beyond aesthetics, the architectural interventions primarily focused on improving the home's environmental performance. Ray Cheung noted that many Victorian houses in inner-city Melbourne suffer from poor heating, cooling, and daylighting, leading to suboptimal living conditions. The 'Pergola Extension' dramatically enhances natural ventilation and daylighting, which in turn reduces overall energy consumption and promotes a healthier indoor environment. Sustainable strategies employed in the project include an acoustically and thermally insulated polycarbonate roof and ceiling, optimized natural ventilation, and the creative reuse of existing building materials. For instance, bricks and timber flooring from the old house were salvaged, with the rear façade bricks being repurposed for the garden's landscaping. Krisna Cheung Architects is recognized for its expertise in navigating challenging urban sites and developing innovative inner-city building solutions. Their previous projects, such as 'Colour Shingle House' in North Melbourne, demonstrate a consistent approach to revitalizing existing properties with creativity and flair, often within modest budgets. The firm's methodology emphasizes maximizing spatial generosity and optimizing both functionality and the unique personality of each design. This project exemplifies their commitment to creating impactful architectural solutions that enhance livability and sustainability without necessarily relying on large-scale budgets. The 'Pergola Extension' therefore stands as a testament to thoughtful contemporary design that respects historical context while delivering significant improvements in environmental performance and spatial quality. It successfully blends modern architectural elements with sustainable practices, offering a vibrant and efficient home that meets the needs of a contemporary family within a historically rich urban setting. #Architecture #ResidentialDesign #MelbourneArchitecture #HomeExtension #SustainableDesign #VictorianHome #KrisnaCheungArchitects #OpenPlanLiving #PolycarbonateRoof #UrbanRenovation

Steffen Welsch Architects were tasked with expanding a 1930s, 1,291-square-foot Californian bungalow in Melbourne to accommodate a growing family and frequent guests. The clients sought increased space alongside sustainability, flexible interiors, evolving privacy considerations, and future accessibility. The architectural solution involved adding a 1,259-square-foot rammed earth wing that sweeps off the back of the original house, curving along the property line to maximize solar gain and create a communal courtyard. The design divides the home into four distinct zones. The existing bungalow now serves as the children and guest area, comprising two bedrooms, a playroom, and bathrooms. Each zone in the expanded home features its own outdoor space. The architects strategically positioned the new addition to capture sunlight, forming a central courtyard that allows occupants to view their own home rather than a boundary fence, addressing the challenge of a south-facing extension on a compact inner-city block. Sustainability was a core principle, focusing on minimizing both embodied and operational energy. This was achieved through passive solar design, optimal building orientation, high-performance windows and doors, and the use of rammed earth. Rammed earth was chosen for its low embodied energy and its contribution to the building's thermal mass. An entry hall connects the original bungalow to the addition, leading to the new master suite. Built-in storage, clad in charred wood, was incorporated for flexible use and accessibility. The connecting corridor, featuring polished concrete screed floors, leads to shared living spaces, with high clerestory windows in the rammed earth walls providing ample natural light. A study is integrated into this corridor with external access, and an interior window from the kitchen overlooks the study and hall. The shared living spaces open onto the communal courtyard through a curved glass wall. The kitchen features flat-front cabinetry and round backsplash tiles with a pastel glaze. Material selection emphasized functionality and user interaction, with a focus on solar heat radiation, natural ventilation, and durable surfaces. The bathroom incorporates wood-paneled walls that echo the rammed earth striations, using wormy chestnut and recycled blackbutt for the counter. The playroom, located in the original house, also faces the new courtyard. The addition's design thoughtfully combines the lightweight timber-clad aesthetic of the original bungalow with the robust character of earth construction, creating a home that is both functional and aesthetically harmonized with its surroundings. #HomeDesign #RammedEarth #SustainableArchitecture #BungalowExtension #MelbourneArchitecture #FamilyHome #PassiveSolarDesign #FlexibleLiving #ArchitecturalRenovation

For decades, architects and government officials have recognized the importance of energy-efficient buildings, especially since the 1970s energy crisis. Buildings, including their construction, materials, and associated infrastructure, contribute up to 40 percent of global carbon emissions, making energy efficiency a critical concern. This understanding is foundational in North American architecture schools and has been emphasized by European institutions for even longer. The "Passive House Design" approach, pioneered by German architects, considers a building's entire interconnected system, focusing on its integration with the site, climate, and social support. This philosophy extends beyond residential structures to all building types. A more recent evolution, the "Net Zero Design" approach, also led by German designers, takes this further by requiring buildings to be highly efficient, use minimal energy, and replace all the energy they consume, potentially even contributing excess energy back to the local power grid. Europe, with its advanced energy design and construction history, has developed numerous innovative building cladding systems that contribute to energy efficiency. These systems often incorporate specialty fabrics in intelligent ways, such as vertical shade systems, retractable awnings, and entire building wraps. Industry experts, including Steve Fredrickson from Serge Ferrari North America, note that Europe is significantly ahead of North America in this area due to a lack of air conditioning standardization in European homes and retail, creating a greater need for heat barrier solutions. Additionally, European building codes are more adaptable to new energy-reducing products and developments. In contrast, existing North American building codes and the time required for their amendment make widespread adoption of fabric shade systems more challenging. Architect Samuel Armijos observes that while European markets showcase many examples of vertical fabric systems, such projects are scarce in the U.S. This lack of visible examples hinders broader acceptance and design incorporation. Architect Nicholas Goldsmith, however, notes a growing recognition among North American designers that exterior shading, particularly in specific regional climates, offers advantages over other cladding systems, such as being lightweight, efficient, and cost-effective. Mike Squizzato of Stobag North America Corp. highlights that Europeans prioritize shade for cooling due to higher electricity costs, whereas North Americans typically rely on air conditioning. He believes that as electricity costs rise and climate concerns grow, North American markets will rapidly adopt shading solutions, with awnings and vertical shading providing natural air-conditioned environments and potentially saving over 50 percent on electricity bills. Paul Snustead, director of facades at Structurflex, acknowledges Europe's lead but points to Structurflex's efforts to advance fabric facade architecture in the U.S. Tensile facades, also known as textile, fabric, or flexible facades, offer an innovative, long-lasting, and cost-effective alternative to traditional metal mesh screens, often costing about 50 percent less. These systems act as a 'second skin' for buildings, providing screening and shading, which can contribute to reduced energy consumption and LEED certification. Despite the clear benefits, the adoption of fabric-based shading systems in North America faces challenges. Traditional cladding materials remain strong competitors. Armijos notes a decline in leads for shade jobs, with parking garages being the primary market, but even there, fabric competes with pre-fabricated concrete and metal mesh systems. He suggests a major global event might be needed to spur a push toward textile facades. Andrew Trowbridge of Ronstan International observes a shift away from stainless steel cables in fabric structures towards greening systems and perforated aluminum panels for shade and facade coverage. Conversely, Fredrickson sees growth in both static and retractable vertical shading options across North America. Snustead describes an exponential expansion in the fabric facade architecture market, particularly for tensile fabric meshes, membranes, and foils, initially driven by parking garage screening requirements. Structurflex has seen an 800 percent increase in facade projects annually, with fabric facades becoming a significant part of their operations. Squizzato predicts that as temperatures rise, North Americans will increasingly seek cost-effective cooling solutions beyond air conditioning, leading to buildings with more colorful awnings and widespread vertical shading, eventually mirroring European practices within 15 years. For companies looking to enter or expand in this market, experts emphasize the need for knowledge, education, and accessibility of information. The ideal company size varies by region and market, but success hinges on having the right products and expertise. Fredrickson warns against using cheap, unproven products, which can harm the market's reputation. Snustead highlights the versatility of tensile facades, which can span large distances with less structural support and use materials that are often 100% recyclable with long lifespans. Squizzato points out that many existing businesses, from awning companies to landscape architects, can leverage sun shade protection to expand their services, provided they have appropriate insurance, training, and competent staff. The overall outlook for vertical fabric shading remains positive, with continued growth anticipated, especially as architects and contractors become more familiar with the medium's innovation and economic advantages. #BuildingFacades #VerticalShading #EnergyEfficiency #FabricArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalTextiles #NetZeroDesign #ClimateControl #ConstructionInnovation

This blog post details the renovation of a three-story Victorian home overlooking Long Island Sound in Larchmont, owned by the Pinchin family. The project, led by architect Robert Keller of Keller/Eaton and homeowner Gillian Pinchin, who also runs her interior design firm Wondernose, focused on transforming the traditional exterior with a funky, eclectic, and modern interior designed for contemporary family living. The primary objective was to modernize the home while maintaining its historical charm. The most substantial changes were implemented on the third floor. This area, which previously consisted of five small maids' rooms, was reconfigured to create a spacious master suite. This new suite now includes a master bedroom, a dedicated bathroom, a dressing room, separate his-and-hers offices, and a deck offering views of the water. The architect noted that the goal was to repurpose underutilized spaces into functional and aesthetically pleasing areas suitable for a modern lifestyle. A unique challenge was creating a sense of privacy for the parents within the master suite without isolating it from their three young children. The solution was a 2-inch-thick, 400-pound walnut door, crafted by Pinchin’s father, which slides on casters like a barn door. This door provides privacy when closed but allows the third floor to feel contiguous with the rest of the house when open. The second floor of the home features three bedrooms and a bathroom for the children, along with a guest room, an additional bathroom, and a laundry room. On the first floor, a modern island was incorporated into the traditional kitchen, blending new elements with existing aesthetics. Additionally, a formal living room was re-envisioned as a "grown-up room" by Pinchin, providing a tranquil space with two chaises for relaxation. The basement was also renovated to include a bedroom, a bathroom, a mudroom, and a gym, all designed with a clean, simple, and functional style. For the interior design, Pinchin adopted a "gallery approach," painting most walls white to allow select pieces of artwork or furniture to stand out. The most striking element in the house is a custom graffiti wall in the dining room. Pinchin commissioned an artist from San Francisco, who used traditional paint to create a "sloppy" graffiti look, even incorporating the children's initials into the design. This "crazy wall" creates a compelling contrast with the otherwise quiet room, furnished with midcentury pieces inherited from Pinchin's grandmother. The architect highlighted this surprising juxtaposition between the home's traditional exterior and its modern interior as a key success of the project. The article further elaborates on specific design choices in various rooms. In the master bedroom, artwork above the bed provides a splash of color against a neutral backdrop. Her office maintains an all-white theme with a zebra-skin chair and personal artwork. The kitchen features a modern island and a bubble chandelier alongside a reproduction of an old master's painting and green subway tiles. The "grown-up room" boasts a lenticular image of a ballerina above the mantel, offering a dynamic visual element, and combines high-end B&B Italia chaises with an Ikea shelving unit, showcasing a blend of high and low furnishings. The overall renovation successfully merges historical architecture with contemporary design and personal artistic expression. #VictorianHome #HomeRenovation #ModernInteriorDesign #ArchitecturalUpdate #MasterSuite #EclecticDecor #GraffitiArt #InteriorDesign #GillianPinchin #RobertKeller

The Cornerstone House in Melbourne, designed by Splinter Society Architecture, redefines residential design through its distinctive use of rough, natural materials and a focus on rugged beauty. The project involved the complete redesign of an existing home, transforming it into a contemporary dwelling where natural elements play a foundational role in both aesthetics and structure. The core concept is an 'ode to rugged beauty,' drawing inspiration from the quarries that historically characterized the Northcote area of Melbourne. A central feature of the house is the incorporation of large, brusquely honed boulders. Two robust monoliths guard the entrance, and a succession of these rocks is strategically placed throughout the interior and landscaped garden. These rocks, craned onto the site before the two-storey structure was built around them, maintain a rough-hewn state, appearing as though recently mined. They serve multiple functional and aesthetic purposes, acting as interior partitions, integrated joinery, flooring elements, and landscaping features. One notable instance is a finely shaved outdoor table slab, showcasing the versatility of the stone. This deliberate integration of natural stone articulates foundational and key aesthetic elements of the home, linking it directly to its namesake and the geological history of the region. The design harmoniously balances the substantial, natural qualities of the split-faced stone with refined architectural detailing. The exterior features a ribbed fabric of black steel cladding and vertical fins on the entrance façade, which tautly stretch over the family home and rise to angled peaks above modular bases. This contrast between the heavy stone and the sleek steel creates a dynamic visual tension. The architects also meticulously integrated natural light to alleviate the density of the surfaces and introduce a 'subtle sense of ornamentation' through shadow play. This approach was driven by the client’s desire for a robust, low-maintenance home that didn’t require external decorative objects. Various lighting techniques are employed to highlight the material textures and create captivating patterns. A seven-meter-long skylight animates the walls and polished concrete floors with patterns from charcoal timber slats and fine steel handrails. Another skylight above the fireplace illuminates a black granite wall, emphasizing its linear-sawed and chiseled features. An upper-level lightwell and balcony between the children's bedrooms ensure a steady stream of sunlight reaches the pool and garden below. Warmth is introduced through copper metallic finishes with their rosy tones, timber-clad bedroom walls, and a 12-seater custom recycled timber dining table, which provides a horizontal mass against myriad vertical rhythms. The architectural design also plays with inert and animated tensions, such as the sinuous curve of the roof above the lounge and dining spaces, which appears to float upon glass. This design element contributes to an air of calming decompression in the living area, while also drawing views of the surrounding landscaping indoors. The landscaping includes curved walkways, crazy paving, amoebic carpets of grass, and the ripples of the pool, all of which complement the teal sheen of the velveteen lounges inside. The house was designed with a focus on entertaining, including integrated technology like concealed multi-coloured LED strips to create a party atmosphere in specific zones. #CornerstoneHouse #MelbourneArchitecture #SplinterSocietyArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #RoughMaterials #NaturalStone #ContemporaryInteriors #ArchitecturalRenovation #SustainableDesign

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

This article details a challenging home renovation project undertaken by Ben Callery Architects in Melbourne, Australia. The client desired a modern and bright extension to their home, but the site presented significant constraints. The addition had to be constructed between existing boundary walls of neighboring properties, and it faced a less-than-ideal north-facing orientation, which typically hinders the ingress of natural light. Furthermore, the original facade of the house was historically protected, meaning it could not be altered. To overcome these challenges and introduce abundant natural light into the new space, the architects implemented a clever design solution: they raised the roof of the addition and incorporated clerestory windows on all four sides. Clerestory windows are high-set windows positioned above eye level, allowing light to penetrate deep into the interior while maintaining privacy. To specifically capitalize on the warming southern sun during winter months, the design team extended the clerestory panes on the southern side. This extension culminated in an elegant, upward-curving roofline situated above the kitchen area. This distinctive curving roof and the extensive clerestory windows dramatically enhanced the amount of natural light within the space. The result was a significantly brighter interior that also conveyed a profound sense of expansiveness. The interior design of the extension features a minimalist material palette. Bright white walls serve as a neutral backdrop, complemented by natural wood floors and cabinetry, which introduce warmth and texture. These elements are contrasted with jet-black window mullions and integrated built-in storage units. This thoughtful combination creates a balanced aesthetic, guiding the eye across the room with its striking black and white interplay. Adding to the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor living, the rear wall of the extension is almost entirely composed of glass doors. These doors are designed to open fully, effectively blurring the lines between the interior living area and the backyard. The exterior space includes a sunken seating area, which, when combined with the fully opening glass doors, creates a harmonious and expansive living environment. The article highlights how these architectural and design choices transformed a challenging brief into a highly functional, visually appealing, and light-filled home extension. #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalDesign #NaturalLight #ClerestoryWindows #ModernArchitecture #MelbourneHomes #BenCalleryArchitects #InteriorDesign #CurvingRoof

This article features the "Bike House," a project by fmd Architects in Melbourne, designed for an active family with a passion for cycling. The architectural approach addresses the constraints of a tight budget and limited urban space by employing a stacked structure to minimize the building's footprint and maximize garden area. This structural choice influenced the façade's arrangement, incorporating shading devices and privacy screens to create a private and sheltered environment for the occupants. The exterior of the house, constructed from cement and steel, features elements that fold outwards to function as privacy screens. A perforated aluminum fence extends from the building towards the street, a material chosen to deter graffiti. In contrast, a recycled brick wall serves as a designated canvas for street art, blending urban aesthetics with functional design. The design prioritizes flexibility in the interior spaces, anticipating the evolving needs of the family as their children grow. A significant influence on the design, and the source of the project's name, was the family's active lifestyle, particularly the father's dedication to cycling. This necessitated creative solutions for storing multiple bicycles, impacting both the layout and specific details of the house. Inside, the design adopts a more dynamic and vivid aesthetic, featuring angular geometries that convey a sense of activity. Contrasting materials such as concrete and timber are used, with recycled brick introducing a textured element alongside smoother surfaces in the kitchen. An oblique section of Vic Ash timber is integrated into the ceiling, extending downwards into the cabinetry, mirroring the folding patterns observed on the façade. Large windows and sliding glass doors in the dining room extend the living space into the enclosed garden, enhancing natural light within the home. The perforated aluminum material, also used for the exterior fence, is repurposed as a privacy screen in the bedroom, allowing light to filter through its openings. The children's bathroom features clean white tiles, arranged to echo the twisting and folding architectural motifs seen on the exterior. Beyond the primary living areas and bedrooms, the house incorporates three additional "flexible zones" to accommodate the family's active lifestyle. These spaces can adapt to various functions, such as a playroom, study, home office, lounge, or an extra bedroom, demonstrating a thoughtful use of every millimeter of space. The design ensures these spaces are adaptable to changes in family dynamics over time. The backyard includes a rich wood deck, built by the family, which provides a warm visual counterpoint to the concrete and steel structure of the house. A cleverly concealed shed on the south side offers storage for bicycles and tools. #ModernArchitecture #UrbanDesign #FamilyHome #FlexibleSpaces #SustainableMaterials #CyclingLifestyle #AustralianDesign #PrivacyScreens #CompactLiving