Kew Townhouse sits solid and discretely amongst its established typical suburban neighbours. The 3 level URBAN home turns its back from the public stage focussing its energy inwards and out towards framed treetop views and vistas across the city skyline and the Yarra River.
The brief was to design an owner occupied generously sized family home fit for future generational change. A small residential development of only 2 detached townhomes-villas was a challenge on a small site together with planning restrictions at hand. Refined detailing with a visually detached street presentation as one harmonious composition typically that is found within the neighbourhood built grain.
Located on an exposed corner site within a cul de sac street, the new townhome replaces half the footprint of an existing 70’s brick single dwelling. An attempt to discretely stitch and retain the detached built form rhythm typically found in the surrounding context.
The approach was to carefully compose a series of new solid volumes dictated by program and balanced to the backdrop of the leafy suburban canvas.
A paired back traditional brutalist material palette of tactile clay brick and smooth concrete inspired by the tones of the foliage and bark of the 2 significant Queensland box canopy trees located directly opposite the townhouse.
Simple breezy cross ventilation principles enhanced the sustainability of the townhome. Key local materials and trades was imperative to the build with local brick manufacturer, skilled trades utilised giving back to local community.
Habitat, santurary and retreat-words that describe and contribute to the distinct functional spaces that flow seamlessly and provide functionality with a feel of luxe. Light filled spaces promote entertaining whilst enjoying the sound and views of the nature that surround the townhouse engaging with the occupants.
Every practical needs are met for a typical family home including an abundance of storage. A calm retreat with the combination of natural daylight, clever interior hidden lighting and warm tones used throughout makes it easy to transition from space to space.
Internally, calmness was key to the experience of spaces, with room volumes all visually connected yet restrained with carefully positioned openings within walls and ceiling voids allowing filtered natural light to further define each space and bring a sense of intrigue and lightness to the interiors in contrast to the exteriors solid form. Carefully framed views out to the sky, canopy trees and nearby Yarra River dictate the controlled filtered natural light within.