People often describe houses as being imbued with a particular personality. But today’s home, by Rob Mills, of Rob Mills Architecture & Interiors manages to capture multiple personalities and moods, all within the one building.

Rob has been working for 26 years to create ‘innovative and inspiring residences’ across Australia and around the world. The celebrated Melbourne architect has brought all of this experience together in the design of his family home, in a former industrial building in Armadale. ‘I have spent my career trying to discover what makes a house a pleasure to live in’ Rob explains… ‘and I’ve realised that it really is a sensory experience.’

The home demonstrates an intense attention to detail, where natural and artificial light is balanced throughout, and an inner sanctuary has been created through the clever use of masonry, concrete and insulation. A striking spiral staircase corkscrews through the site, and connects all levels of the home. Every room of the house is connected to the outdoors through thoughtfully placed windows, and a water feature which flows from the outdoors into the living room.

Rob explains that ‘the property itself has many personalities – you only need to look as far as the communal living spaces to realise that.’ While ‘rigorous interior design language’ is consistently applied throughout the house, the architect explains that the ‘winter room’ is particularly distinct. Inspired by an English study, this room ‘creates a completely different experience, compared to the living room that it is adjacent to.’

In addition to this cosy nook room, and the mind-bogglingly beautiful staircase, Rob’s family home also features a spectacular gold kitchen! For the architect, it was important to be playful and to create a space which offers a ‘sense of surprise’ (It sure does!). Rob explains that the ‘juxtaposition of these living spaces was to create a feeling of choice.’ With spaces like these on offer – honestly, HOW TO BEGIN to decide where to spend your afternoon!?