Modular architecture design studio Modscape completed this elegant home in Tamarama, NSW. With only a few minutes’ walk from the beach, it is a sophisticated, functional, and light-filled family home.

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The brief

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The clients wanted a home that fit their lifestyle through better connections between indoor and outdoor spaces. They also wanted to enhance the use of natural light, encouraging improved passive heating and cooling. Local architect Fox Johnston developed the initial concept of the house. Then, the Modscape team refined the design while maintaining the architect’s design intent. The resulting design beautifully complements the existing elements of the site. It connects the front and rear garden through the house and optimizing the connection between indoor and outdoor.

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The design

Various living spaces on the ground floor provide ample alternate uses for the whole family. The team maintained the visual integration and surveillance between kitchen, living, dining, outdoor and detached rumpus + study, thus creating an inclusive living environment.

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Inside, a light material palette with accents of timber contrasts the dark exterior. As soon as you walk in the front door, a generous double-height foyer welcomes you. It also features a staircase that reflects the timber battens used externally. In the living room, timber extends up the wall and across the ceiling to help to define the space and beautifully complement the oak flooring subtly.

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Opting for quality materials that will withstand heavy use from the children rather than ‘showy’ finishes ensure the result is a design that is durable and humble yet elegant and timeless.

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Since the dwellers can easily access the beach, there was no need for a pool. Instead, the backyard acts as an extension of the indoor living spaces which smoothly transition into the outdoor thanks to vast expanses of glass. An efficient layout upstairs comfortably sees five bedrooms and two bathrooms possessing plenty of space for adults and children alike.

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Sustainability

The house incorporates moveable timber battened screens that capture sunlight in winter and exclude it from heating up in summer. It also helps to soften the form by adding layers and texture to the façade as well as aid in preventing solar heat gain by giving control to the occupants. Highlight windows and skylights used throughout the home maximize light and bring in natural cross ventilation to ensure the house is as comfortable as it is bright.

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The team constructed the project in just 12 weeks within Modscape’s Melbourne factory. After that, they transported it in 10 modules to the site. Six weeks later they completed the onsite works.

Photography by John Madden