This residence in Melbourne, Australia, exudes a light and ethereal atmosphere, created by sunlight reflecting off its granite facade. This is especially striking considering the building’s exterior is composed of 260 tons of granite.
The materials and architectural details present similar contrasts. The natural texture and roughness of the cracked granite facade soften the rigid edges of the stacked linear volume. Despite its solid appearance, the structure integrates quietly into the surrounding environment.
The use of three types of granite creates a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Although these materials are large and robust, their combination results in a harmonious continuity throughout the home. Achieving this effect required intricate craftsmanship by construction workers and stonemasons, who collaborated to introduce subtle material variations and complex detailing. These nuanced finishes make the same granite suitable for different applications and functions.
In certain areas, such as the master bedroom suite, collaboration with suppliers was essential to customize stone manufacturing. This allowed for unique pieces like the solid stone bathtub and washbasin, enhancing the home’s cohesive design.
While the structure is solid and permanent, the interior spaces remain light and transparent. This is especially evident in the living room, where a fully retractable glass facade opens directly to the adjoining courtyard.
This home was designed to meet the needs of a couple downsizing from a larger house. While it still provides rooms for visiting adult children, the layout primarily focuses on the couple’s lifestyle. Custom features include a shared study, an oversized master suite, and private outdoor showers nestled within secluded Japanese gardens—elements rarely found in urban residential designs.
The project adopts a holistic design approach, with an interdisciplinary team addressing all aspects of landscape and interior design within the architectural plan. The landscape design fulfills the client’s wish for diverse plantings and terraces, minimizing lawn maintenance. A privacy screen lines the street edge, behind which a grove of rosemary trees inspired by Mount Fuji welcomes visitors. From the kitchen and living areas, views are directed toward the low-maintenance plants on the terrace, blending nature with living spaces.
Project Drawings
▲ Underground Floor Plan
▲ First Floor Plan
▲ Second Floor Plan
Project Information
Project Type: Independent Residential Building
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Architectural Design: B.E Architecture
Year Completed: 2017
Photographer: Peter Clarke
Manufacturers: Brodware, Eco Outdoor, Maruni Wood Industry, Minotti, Granite Works, Classicon, B.E Architecture
Lead Architects: Broderick Ely, Andrew Piva, Jon Boucher
Construction: LBA Constructions
Joinery: Distinction Joinery
Metalwork: Mckinna
Interior and Landscape Design: B.E Architecture
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