By Holmes Architecture
Situated in a peaceful, private estate, the Scrimshaw House is a showcase of contemporary luxury living, its precise yet ambitious design complementing the meticulous surroundings. An expansive single-level, three-bedroom residence, gradually revealed from the street approach, the Scrimshaw House transcends conventional design, offering a haven of space, functionality, and timeless elegance.
The architectural vision for the Scrimshaw House centres on the synthesis of form and function, catering to the client's desire for a generous home conducive to both family gatherings and entertainment. The solution manifests in two distinct wings interconnected by a captivating lobby/gallery space, featuring a striking butterfly roof that invites guests into the feature front entrance.
The exterior of the Scrimshaw House is a contrast of sleek black standing seam metal against the naturally inspired, textural bluestone spine wall. The dynamic geometry of the opposing wings creates an inviting entry sequence, accentuated by the seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Outdoor living areas are sheltered by a dramatic cantilevered roof and extend into the serene parklike grounds, adorned by a swimming pool and meticulously manicured landscaping.
Internally, the Scrimshaw House exudes a sense of luxury, characterised by generous proportions and refined finishes. French oak flooring lends warmth and sophistication to the living spaces, while exposed industrial steel structure adds a dynamic element to the space. The bluestone feature wall, extending from the interior to the exterior, serves as a unifying element, from the entrance lobby and guest bedroom wing, through to the living spaces and beyond to the outdoor living.
The heart of the home, the kitchen, is refined and
elegant, featuring high-end finishes and meticulous attention to detail. A butler’s pantry ensures ample storage space and the bathrooms offer a sense of tranquility. Luxurious fixtures and a restrained palette throughout enhance the overall ambience, refinement and sophistication.
The Scrimshaw House is a study in form, function and finish where architectural expression converges with the timeless beauty of its natural surroundings. With its expansive living areas, seamless indoor-outdoor connection, and meticulous attention to detail, this residence epitomises contemporary luxury living.
With a family heritage in construction and as a qualified builder himself, Mike Holmes established Holmes Architecture while completing the Masters of Architecture programme at Victoria University.
Working on complex residential and commercial projects fostered an affinity with built form, and Holmes Architecture was initiated through connecting this intimate knowledge of the construction process with an intuition and passion for architecture and design.
Mike’s approach to the design process is fluid and intuitive, although his non-linear approach is always coupled with a strong sense of identity, purpose and process - “Establishing identity is fundamental to the creative process and establishing who you, and your clients are, will ensure a clear project vision.”
Identity may be revealed in a multitude of ways: architectural style, environmental considerations, materiality, detailing, form, relationship to landscape - in either case a strong sense of form and composition is often a theme of the practice. Client and context is the first conversation initiated in each project, where the many competing forces of the design brief are reconciled through design thinking, visualisation and documentation.
Mike believes that architecture is communication in both practice and product - “The spark that delivers an initial design insight is a relatively brief moment in the process. The practice of architecture is then the communication of this brief and intense moment. What elevates buildings to architecture is when a designer has something worthwhile to say and does so in an insightful and honest way.”
Mikes ultimate aim is that unexpected and delightful design solutions are achieved through balancing function, construction and efficiency with a deep empathy for site, context and client.