A Home That Conceals, Then Reveals!

In undertaking the renovation of this Northcote home, Ola Studio worked closely with their clients (a family of five plus a pooch), who had a clear vision for the aesthetic outcome. Having lived previously in a converted warehouse, the family wished to translate an expansive, industrial vibe into the suburban setting, while also providing a space to exhibit and enjoy their art collection.

Phil explained the clients’ brief as a desire for ‘clean hard line aesthetics in a bold and sculptural gesture.’ The resulting outcome certainly makes a bold statement in the street, while maintaining a respectful relationship with the heritage precinct in which the home is located. The black silhouetted house exterior takes its inspiration from the neighbouring homes, echoing an old fashioned gabled roof form. The architect highlights, ‘we carefully managed the larger scale of [this house] with a gabled form that took the same pitch as the neighbours, but stepped in scale to establish a fitting rhythm within the streetscape.’

This flat black exterior street view belies the ‘white cube’ gallery inspired space inside. ‘The minimal aesthetics of the interior acts as a gallery for the client’s art collection’ Phil describes.

Ola Studio have married the public façade, living space, private bedrooms and secluded gardens through sweeping sculptural gestures, and strong consideration of how light enters the home. The upstairs area is ‘wrapped in black vertical aluminium angles’ and throughout the day, shifting angles of sunlight softly illuminates the internal spaces. A long void space that runs through the home also draws the garden and surrounds into the home, and connects all aspects of the property together.

Phil highlighted the successful relationship between clients, builders and architects as central to the success of this stunning home. The architect enthuses, ‘informed by our clients’ love of stark materiality and clean aesthetics, the house unexpectedly provides a warm and joyful environment.’ A reminder not to judge a book (or house!) by its cover!