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“Right from the outset we knew that Kristen had a high attention to detail… The ultimate design was quite innovative in how it delivered on our brief whilst managing the restrictions. The KJA team's interaction with the council along the way also very encouraging and whatever the council required was provided in a timely manner and with the outcome we were after…"

— Tomomi, Client

‘Sunlight filtering through trees’

A majestic lemon scented gum tree located to the rear of this site becomes the focus of this new home in Mont Albert North.

Drawing inspiration from the spectacular tree and the Client’s Japanese heritage, Komorebi House is formed physically and conceptually through folding and flat surfaces, thoughtfully detailed screens and glazed openings to frame light and shade, and tactile, natural material selections to create dynamic spatial experiences throughout this home.

A genkan at the entry (an internal threshold for the exchange of shoes and slippers) leads to a double height passage framed by tactile rammed earth walls with narrow slot window that throw rhythmic streams of sunlight along the walkway.

Warm timbers line the central courtyard in the form of a traditional engawa, a short perimeter extension of the internal floor to a deck – a traditional Japanese architectural device to provide physical connection with the surrounding landscape.

The epitome of Komorebi House is demonstrated in the upstairs Master Bedroom overlooking the wide crown and open habit of the 16m tall gum tree in the rear yard. The location of this superb tree creates dappled leaf shadows year round into this restful space and has been the focus of our design from the very beginning.

This close relationship with the landscape (designed by Phillip Johnson Landscapes) invites powerful emotive connections with the daily rhythms of nature; finding quiet beauty and engagement with this exceptional site.

Kirsten Johnstone Architecture
Hawthorn, Victoria
Komorebi House
Komorebi House
Komorebi House
Komorebi House
Komorebi House
Komorebi House
Komorebi House
Komorebi House
Komorebi House
Komorebi House
Komorebi House

Professionals used in
Komorebi House

About the
Professional

At Kirsten Johnstone Architecture, we craft thoughtful enriched spaces. We listen to our clients. We respond with consideration and integrity. We design each project with experience and understanding. We deliver beautiful architecture.

Whether it be in the residential, commercial, or cultural realm, our contextually sensitive design approach has seen us shortlisted for the internationally recognised INDE Awards in 2020, shortlisted in the Australian IDEA 2023 Awards and Gold Winner at the Australian Good Design Awards 2021.

Led by director Kirsten Johnstone, we are proud of our excellent client relationships and the delivery of high-quality projects that exceed expectations. We offer holistic architectural and interior design services: from pre-design / feasibility studies through all design phases including construction administration. Our team is collaborative, agile and versatile; able to achieve excellent client-centred outcomes.

Our practice is currently expanding its breadth of projects. Please get in touch to find out how we can assist you in creating something special..