Wurundjeri Country
The owners of Garden House in Mount Eagle Estate loved their property and garden, but the house lacked light and outdoor connections, and the centre was dark, wasted space. Having lived in the home for more than 20 years, they came to Zen Architects wanting a design that brought them closer to their garden.
While the 1930s heritage façade gives no hint to what lies behind, all is immediately revealed upon opening the front door. Taking inspiration from the curvilinear roads and teardrop-shaped reserves of the subdivision, we sculpted a curved glass facade into the living area. Drawing light and nature deep into the floor plan, the glass void brings the clients close to their garden from all living spaces, as the interior expands around it.
The family room is at the centre of the home, and the kitchen and dining area along the north side, where soft light filters through the glass splashback and high-level window. The sunken living room on the south side is bathed in northern light as it radiates over the top of the teardrop, and deep eaves around the glass facade protect the interior from the summer sun. The terrace and deck embed the house in the landscape; eliminating balustrading helps forge this closer connection.
Off-white dry-pressed brick and dark stone flooring take their cues from the subdivision, and are softened with timber to reflect the existing gumtrees. This palettes creates a natural, cosy interior secondary to the landscape, highlighting the vibrant garden outside.
Builder: Genjusho
Photography: Derek Swalwell