This architectural gem converts an ordinary block into a modern dream home

You know those houses you cruise past that make you do a double-take? This is one of them.

Nestled on a battle axe block, this home designed by architects Simone Robeson and Lauren Benson from Robeson Architects is a true standout. With its sleek materials and ultra-modern design, it’s hard not to be captivated by its contemporary beauty.

It’s the façade that stops you in your tracks – the materials a striking combination of Victorian ash timber cladding, ivory masonry block and sand finish render. Together, they create an architectural masterpiece.

Robeson faced the challenging task of working with a battle axe block of land. The goal for the design was clear: ditch the standard single-storey setup with its dreary Colourbond fence views. Instead, create a standout two-storey home that would enhance the urban landscape, and free up space for gardens, lush landscaping, and plenty of light and ventilation for the homeowners.

Inside, the home is cleverly divided into two wings by a central core. One wing houses the main living areas, while the other accommodates the bedrooms and back-of-house spaces.

A masonry block ‘blade wall’ runs the entire length of the home, neatly dividing the living areas from the bedrooms. This blade wall even extends out to the outdoor dining area, providing a stylish screen and privacy. Most of the ground floor walls are double brick with a sleek render finish, adding to the home’s robust and polished look.

Upon arrival, stepping pavers guide you through a gravel driveway towards the front door. Inside, a direct line of sight through an open steel staircase reveals a stunning feature garden, offering a refreshing view from both the entryway and adjacent ground floor bedroom.

The living room is an architectural delight, with high ceilings that create an expansive sense of space. Full-height glazing at both ends enhances this openness even further, while also improving natural cross-flow ventilation.

The high ceilings in the living wing were achieved through clever design, by building the upper floor on the other side of the central core. Upstairs features lightweight timber construction clad in Victorian ash with a light grey stain designed to age gracefully over time.

Following passive design principles, the first-floor windows are strategically angled to the north for optimal sunlight, and each room boasts two windows to maximise cross-flow ventilation. Additionally, the first floor extends over the entryway, offering shelter from the weather.

The design embraces seamless indoor-outdoor living. The kitchen opens onto a covered BBQ court overlooking a landscaped garden (perfect for entertaining), while the lounge area connects to a covered outdoor dining area, sized to maintain a spacious north-facing garden.

A cut-out in the northwest dining wall enhances space by extending views across the block’s width.

To meet council requirements, the driveway features a 6-metre wide concrete turning circle. Gravel over traditional concrete is a striking detail and not only helps manage stormwater, but seamlessly integrates with the garden.

Dense planting and a hit-and-miss brick wall provide privacy from the entry and driveway. Shading over the dining area blocks summer sun from the lounge room while welcoming winter sunlight.

Head to robesonarchitects.com.au for more information.

Image Credit: Dion Robeson