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Sumit Singhal
Sumit Singhal loves modern architecture. He comes from a family of builders who have built more than 20 projects in the last ten years near Delhi in India. He has recently started writing about the architectural projects that catch his imagination. Dame of Melba in Victoria, Australia by Seeley ArchitectsJuly 13th, 2013 by Sumit Singhal
Article source: Seeley Architects The Dame of Melba is a weekend holiday residence for a retired couple, set into a hillside overlooking the rugged Anglesea coastline. Exposed and in a harsh, salty environment, materials that weather well over time and require minimal maintenance were key selection criteria.  Image Courtesy © Shannon McGrath
 Image Courtesy © Shannon McGrath The house is dug into the sloping site with dynamic cantilevered spaces overhanging the earth. The exterior of the house is clad in locally sourced timber boards for their beautiful weathering characteristics. The facade will slowly transform into a silvery grey driftwood colour, with subtle textural variations complimenting the surrounding native vegetation. Massive granite filled gabion walls retain the hillside and form the boundary of the carport hidden beneath one of the branching cantilevers.  Image Courtesy © Shannon McGrath Entry to the residence is from beneath one such cantilever, through a Gallery space that leads to a staircase and up into the open plan kitchen and living area. The lower level is reserved as sleeping quarters for family and guests. Decks to the north and east branch off the Living area. Sliding timber screens wrap around the Northern deck providing privacy from neighbours and shading from the sun, with the added benefit of beautiful patterned light being cast internally.  Image Courtesy © Shannon McGrath Internal linings are drawn outward, with sustainably grown Hoop Pine plywood ceiling panels evolving into external soffit linings. The owners also entertain on the eastern deck, enjoy the coastal views and remain protected from the harsh winds by a massive south facing glazed sliding door. The Master Bedroom sits adjacent to the Living area and enjoys elevated coastal views and the first glimpses of approaching visitors.  Image Courtesy © Shannon McGrath When viewed from the street, the external form and materiality expresses the internal functions. The Living areas are glazed and encased by a copper frame while the master bedroom is privatized by the timber cladding and strategic window placement. The form, materiality and divisions of space in this contextual dwelling create a warm modest retreat that can swell to provide a leisurely haven for family and friends.  Image Courtesy © Shannon McGrath  Image Courtesy © Shannon McGrath  Image Courtesy © Shannon McGrath  Image Courtesy © Shannon McGrath  Image Courtesy © Shannon McGrath  Image Courtesy © Seeley Architects  Image Courtesy © Seeley Architects
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Category: Residential |
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