Located in the city of Melbourne, Australia, the challenge was the sheer scale and the predominant use of mass materials – brick and stone. Large format limestone and narrow textured brickwork establishes the textural language that travels through the house. A gentle curve draws you into the entrance where a passage leads through landscaped courtyards to expansive living, dining and lounge areas, connected to the pool, spa and half-court basketball court.
A solid staircase with sculpted balustrade sweeps through the levels creating a vertical anchor that brings natural light deep inside and connects to the airy courtyard garden on the lower level. The interconnectivity of spaces feels open and private at the same time.
Proportion, texture and material hierarchy is central to tempering the volume, even when you are inside a double height space it feels human in scale. Across the multi-level plan interesting little pockets form quiet spaces and internal gardens, connected by ancient detailing. To further layer the interior experience, a series of nine handmade textured glass screens was commissioned. Both delicate and robust, they act like a veil that reveals or conceals, each obscured panel filtering light and glimpses throughout the living space creating interest and intimacy.
Larger areas are designed so everyone can gather, the courtyards across three levels connecting inhabitants, the mix of landscape and the outdoors paying homage to the cultural vernacular of the Mediterranean courtyard home. The neutral palette with its timeless quality, enabling the soft furnishings, artwork, foliage and the inhabitants to be expressed.
Stone Soul House is a highly detailed home made by artisans. Custom joinery and furniture designed with local artists and craftspeople – lighting, tables, loose furniture, joinery pulls and articulated screening, art and sculpture – in the pursuit of fostering local talent. It is both an intimate home of peace and tranquillity whilst able to expand and play host to many.
