House of Bronzed Steel and Stone

Positioned on a tree-lined street in South Yarra, the House of Bronzed Steel and Stone is a contemporary classic. This home utilizes an interplay of steel and natural limestone and a series of gabled roof forms to create a sophisticated residence with a bold modern aesthetic and timeless appeal.

Once inside, you’re greeted by a curved steel and stone stair that rises from the basement up three stories and commands attention as the centrepiece of the home. The stair is illuminated by an oculus on the top that allows natural light to flood in, reflecting off the venetian plaster walls and adding to the sense of spaciousness and lightness. The venetian plaster walls are a work of art themselves, with their smooth finish and subtle variations in colour adding depth and character to the space.

The use of light is a defining feature of the House of Bronzed Steel and Stone. In addition to the oculus over the stair void, three north facing light scoop devices that replicate the gabled roof form of the street frontage, bring natural light into the more private spaces of the home on the first floor. The vista over the dining area adjacent swimming pool allows light to flow through the living room, and an east-facing glass kitchen splashback allows light to filter through a green bamboo screening.

At the rear of the home sits the living area, a considered blend of timber veneered joinery and highly refined architectural glazing that relate to each other through horizontal datums that relate to the height of the swimming pool, door hardware and benchtop heights.

Full height bronzed steel sliding doors retract, allowing the rear of the home to fully open up allowing the outdoor garden to behave as a seamless extension of the indoor living area. The decision to use the same stone flooring both inside and out was an intentional strategy employed to borrow the landscaping in a way that makes the living area feel larger than it actually is.

The House of Bronzed Steel and Stone plays with contrast, juxtaposing steel and stone with natural lighting. The home has achieved that important balance between open airiness and sturdy materials, crafting a home that stands gracefully stoic.

Architect: Megowan Architectural.