The defining concept behind C-House was to visually connect the sleek proportion of the layout to the rear landscaped yard. A central courtyard carefully articulates the layout and introduces an abundance of natural light into the heart of the home, filtered natural light and layered views combine to provide a lush, focal sanctuary.

With a focus on the layered position of the living and private functions on various levels, C-House was designed to take advantage of the topography. Utilising an underground garage has the benefit of enabling the entire streetscape façade to span the width of the narrow site.

The architectural form strongly expresses horizontal elements which compliment the application of various sophisticated materials. The interplay of light and shade through various reveals, planes and recesses further assist in the breakdown of the building’s mass, each contributing positively to the contemporary design aesthetic. The materiality throughout the home has been carefully considered in reference to a natural warm palette. A favoured selection of rendered concrete, natural textured stone with smooth warm timbers, define the detailed and sustainable character of the home.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted with an impressive scale and grandeur, starting with the initial approach through a luscious landscaped pathway featuring exposed natural materials, while the adjacent reflective pond’s serene tones entices one to the front door.

From the moment you enter the house one becomes exposed to a double volume space drenched in light from the overhead glass skylight and high level windows. The natural materials that clad the vertical elements respect no boundaries; the result is a seamless integration between the interior and exterior zones.

The living, social, private, and outdoor spaces flow around the thriving courtyard as soon as the entry walkway is revealed, highlighting their amplitude and synthesis. This creates a spatial blend both horizontally and vertically to what fundamentally becomes the heart of the home. Approaching the swimming pool's reflective layers, one is welcomed to the open plan living, dining, and alfresco areas that fuse the interior and exterior spaces into a single, continuous space that is encircled by the landscaping and swimming pool area.

The large kitchen space converges as a central family zone connecting the relative aspects of the growing family in an informal, relaxed environment.

A contemporary approach to home automation has been used to offer seamless control over lighting, audio streaming and security solutions; a luxury that affords more time to enjoy the finer things in life.

The design requirements were expanded to include the development of a pool house at the rear of the site. The structure shares the same architectural style and material scheme and sits comfortably in the same environment as its sibling.

C-House is a home of texture, scale and light, complimented by a meticulously designed landscape. The framework of the design is characterised by a carefully considered palette of textural finishes and a masterful selection of furnishings that define the timeless and enduring character of this family home.

• Builder: Expertise Building
• Landscape: Paul Scrivener Design
• Photography: Mike Chorley