Situated in the suburb of Mount Eliza, approximately one hour from Melbourne, Wimborne affords residents enticing glimpses of the bay. Sitting on a gently sloping site, the home spills downwards in obedience to the natural fall of the land in a wide block formation. In contrast to the modest image of the house presented from the street front – a small, rectilinear structure enclosed by a contemporary take on the white picket fence – a birds-eye view of the property presents an impressive picture of spatial luxury, where the building frames a central courtyard on three sides.
Settled within a suburb known for its easy village way of life, enviable architecture and natural surrounds, Wimborne is primed to contribute to and capitalise upon the reputation of its locality.
The exterior expresses classic traits of the 21st century design movement; clean-lined and low-profiled, the structure proposes principles of honesty and modesty, presenting the house as secondary to the surrounding landscape. A polished plaster curved wall shapes the hallway leading to the master bedroom, presenting a soft and rhythmic flow from one room into another. In addition, a curved timber screen defines the living room, offering a degree of privacy whilst permitting ventilation and views to the rest of the home.
Natural light fills each space as a result of generously applied, floor-to-ceiling glazing, creating a visual connection between the structure and external courtyard.
Whilst a solid breeze block is used at the back of the ensuite and cabana – intercepting the rays of sun to create a shifting and spotted shadow – in the dining room, light is embraced in a different manner. A skillion roof exaggerates the north-facing aspect of the room, allowing the internal space to be bathed in sunlight.
Present in the kitchen in the form of seamless joinery, the material cleverly conceals a door to the butler’s pantry, where residents can enjoy additional storage.
In a moment of inspired design, the glass panels inserted into the upper cabinetry reflect the view opposite, drawing the gaze upwards, emphasising the striking dimensions of the space and further solidifying the relationship between house and garden.
More so in summer, the building is reminiscent of a resort – a bright block beneath a clear blue sky, grounded by a timber garage.
Positioning the kitchen directly opposite wide panels of glazing, there is the opportunity to look out onto the courtyard scene whilst cooking, maximising the impact of the home’s layout and landscape. Mirroring the colour palette of the façade, the room features glossy white appliances by Miele, a white range hood and a white kitchen island, offset by timber and metallic accents that create a warm and welcoming space.
The courtyard contains a pool and cabana; amenities that jointly nod to the Palm Springs inspiration for the house and, most importantly, can be visually accessed from all parts of the residence.
Author: Sara Jacob, The Local Project
Location: Mount Eliza, VIC, Australia
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