Goyal Residence - Domus, August 2023
Written and photographed by Pasquale Palmieri
HARCON PROJECTS GOYAL RESIDENCE: Embodying Elegance and Innovation.
A Daring Marvel in Brighton Beach, Melbourne, Australia
Nestled in the heart of Brighton Beach, a leafy suburb of Melbourne breathing sea-air from the ocean breeze of the bay stands an eclectic newly built marvel defying convention; a residential project able to captivate one's imagination, pushing the boundaries of visionary design.
This family home is testament to the audacity of creativity, through an intelligent marriage of bold concepts and architectural language perfectly balancing brave construction and contemporary aesthetics.
Chapter 1. Visionary Design
Martin Friedrich Architects, the designers of this Brighton residence embarked on a journey of transformation, combining concrete industrial elements with modern elegance. The visually arresting front façade is artfully shaped by the striking use of ascending arches intersecting with straight geometric lines and recessed volumes at varied heights. It establishes the backbone of the design language that departs boldly from conventional residential aesthetics. The side elevation extends this statement, retaining the soaring curves of the arches while integrating generously proportioned windows that magically link the various volumes. Elements that not only serve as planning motifs, but that also imbue the space with a sense of dynamic energy and structural integrity. The strategically positioned high windows invite natural light to cascade into the living areas, casting an enchanting meshing of light and shadow that not only enhance the aesthetics, but also promote a connection with the surrounding environment.
Chapter 2. Double Height Soft Curtains - An Artistic Union
Adding a touch of sophistication, elegance and intrigue, cascading floor to ceiling sheer curtains drape the interior. They gracefully caress the architecture, reminiscent of Ricardo Bofill's La Fǻbrica. As gentle breezes animate the space, the high curtains seem to dance in unison, heightening the sensory experience of this sculpted home.
Chapter 3. A Linear Path of Concrete Volumes and Open-Air Spaces
This Brighton residential project unfolds along a linear path, presenting a sequence of interconnected spaces that foster intimacy and exploration. This fluid progression allows for a gradual transition between communal and private zones. The large central hall becomes the determining element in the formal spatial composition, with its high ceilings enhancing the room's vertical proportions. This acts as a central point from which an arrangement of volumes radiate, establishing a hierarchy that spans open-plan living on the ground floor, carpeted cellular rooms on the upper levels, and the expansive underground basement. The architecture is given physical consistency and presence throughout by the use of superbly polished and exposed concrete, natural stone, mosaic tiles and glass as predominant materials. A presence which culminates in the spiral staircase, a soaring sculpture in its own right evocative of Le Corbusier's Villa Savoye, that masterly envelops the three levels. The pure concrete volumes act as blank canvases, accentuating the interplay of sharp and curving edges, while celebrating the purity of the design. Within these volumes lie distinct functional zones, each bespoke to the family's needs. Venturing inside evokes a tangible sense of openness and cohesion dissolving boundaries and inviting nature into the living spaces with serene opportunities for relaxation and contemplation.
Chapter 4. Quality Construction - A Brave Feat
One cannot help but marvel at the building construction quality of Harcon Projects that brought this ambitious concept to life. Modern techniques seamlessly fuse geometric elements with visual finesse, and their accurate execution showcases the skill and precision of the craftsmanship involved. The implementation of double height arches testifies the meticulous planning and assembly applied in ensuring stability and aesthetic integrity. Each arch is designed to intersect with vertical lines at precise points, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with concrete, glass and clean geometry.
Conclusion
In summation, this modern mansion stands as a triumph of contemporary design and construction ingenuity, embodying the harmonious coalescence of contrasting yet complimentary elements. This family haven redefines the contours of modern architecture, prompting praise for the unlimited prospects that arise when imaginative vision and top craftsmanship converge. Cutting-edge finishes and segueing concealed units blend with ageless design elements. They provide the utmost comfort and convenience, while smart home technology and energy-efficient systems contribute to the sustainable living ethos of the project.
Furthermore, the residence boasts an array of amenities including a double height ceiling indoor infinity pool, sauna, personal gym, cinema theatre, wine cellar, music room, a comfortable and discreet lift serving all levels, a panoramic top floor terrace with sea views accessible via a large sliding skylight, and a garage fit for a fleet of cars.
Within this distinctive wonder, hides a sanctuary where innovation, aesthetics and purpose intertwine, climaxing in an unparalleled dwelling destined to endure as a lasting masterpiece. It stands as evidence to the transformative power of innovation, reshaping not only physical spaces but also perceptions of beauty and functionality. Conservative Brighton has gained a striking addition to its landscape - a contemporary palace poised to inspire transgression of architectural norms in generations to come.
Skyródema House - Domus, May 2024
Written and photographed by Pasquale Palmieri
A MASTERPIECE IN MINIMALISM: Skyródema House
In a prestigious sea-side suburb of Melbourne, Victoria, snuggled within a compact plot of land measuring a mere 23 by 13 meters, stands a testament to architectural cleverness. This creation, devised by the visionary minds of the architects at Workroom Design, defies all expectations with its 'mansion-petite' aesthetic appeal.
As the construction took shape, curiosity piqued among passersby, including myself, marveling at the challenges of building within such a confined space looking rather like the front yard of the house next door to it. However, upon witnessing the final result, it became evident that size is no limitation to design inventiveness and imagination.
From the moment one sets eyes on Skyródema House, it becomes evident that this is no ordinary family residence. Despite the constraints posed by its modest footprint, the architects and the builders have crafted a three level dwelling that owns its space as if having always belonged there.
At first glance, the façade of the building exudes a sense of contemporary elegance, reminiscent of Walter Gropius and the Bauhaus’ purity of geometric meeting lines. The precise angular elements of both front and side elevations play with glass and a combination of exposed, polished and rendered concrete surfaces. All earnestly wrapped by the fencing walls with the concrete’s tie holes left exposed, establishing an attention-grabbing visual hierarchy that makes them soar to decoration motif. However, it is upon closer inspection that the true brilliance and individual artistry of the minimalist design of Skyródema House reveals itself.
At street level the residence is designed for living spaces and one guest bedroom. A sculptured staircase with curved lines separates the private sleeping area from the living in dialogue with the angular lines thoughtfully designed to maximise natural light and physical connectivity with the outdoors. Expansive reflective surfaces and floor-to-ceiling windows flood it with sunlight, marrying the boundaries between interior and exterior within an holistic architectural language that manages to be open and continuous. The view provides homogeneity leading onto a private, carefully 'modeled' area complete with swimming pool — a serene oasis regulating acoustic comfort nestled within the bustling cityscape.
Ascending the sensual winding staircase drawing inspiration from a giant like Le Corbusier, one is lifted to the upper level where the architects have shaped a sanctuary of tranquility and comfort, distinguished by a light stoney grey soft carpet with two more bedrooms and separate facilities, boasting ample views of the surrounding landscape.
The corner master bedroom, with its own en suite and walk-in robe, exudes an air of luxury and sophistication, presenting a retreat from the hustle of everyday life. From its vantage point the wide windows, draped in cascading sheer curtains, offer panoramic outlooks over vast greenery, with picturesque Gothic and Tudor style architecture. And an endless expanse of blue sky, compliments of Melbourne often volatile weather, inviting to focus at a distance.
Yet, a further surprise lies beneath the surface, concealed within the underground level of the residence. Here the architects have created a space dedicated to leisure with a fully equipped gym, and a study/music room for creativity, contemplation and physical health. Ample storage facilities cater to the practical needs of modern living, while the garage car hoist lift contributes to the convenience without compromising on space.
Throughout the entirety of Skyródema House, the architects have employed a carefully curated palette of materials, each chosen for durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal merging all artistic mediums into one unified approach. From natural stone and the warmth of wood to the comfort of carpet and the lush of polished concrete, every detail has been meticulously considered to create cohesive and inviting customised solutions.
Here, within the confines of a tiny land size, the architects at Workroom Design, combined with the expertise and focused attention to detail of the highly qualified building team, have achieved the extraordinary — a contemporary harmonious fusion of functionality and simplicity, luxury and practicality, state of the art appliances and eco-conscious innovation, clever planning ability and extensive building tradition that transcend the site's physical dimensions.
Seeking to merge fine art with craftsmanship by using clean lines and geometric shapes embraced by domestic tranquillity, the creators have redefined the possibilities of luxury family living within a limited space, impinging an indelible mark upon the urban Australian architectural landscape. A quality project in all its dimensions, a building context and morphology in which one can find both intellectual and visual enjoyment.
Beyond Walls: Exploring the Future of Residential Architecture
Written by Pasquale Palmieri
Introduction
Residential architecture, the art and science of designing living spaces, is undergoing a profound transformation mirroring our ever faster changing lifestyle. Architects, more than ever before, are becoming an increasingly crucial factor in the development of our daily lives. All our activities take place in some shape of building, be it where we live, study, work or relax. As we stride into the future, architects are challenged to redefine the very essence of what it means to call a place 'home'. From sustainability and technological integration to community-centric design, the future of residential architecture promises to reshape our living environment in more human ways often lost in making space for bare mechanical progress and political games.
Sustainability and Eco-Conscious Design
Coming from the pre-second-millennium old school, my main excitement about surging young architects is due to the current prominent design and planning trends focusing on care for the environment and sustainability. With increasing awareness of environmental issues, up and coming architects are pioneering designs that minimise carbon footprints while maximising energy efficiency. From passive solar design principles to incorporating “green roofs” and utilising recycled materials, eco-conscious contemporary residential architecture aims to harmonise with the natural world rather than impose upon it.
Innovative Building Materials Selection and Techniques
Advancements in technology have paved the way for the adoption of innovative building materials and construction techniques partially pulling away from the extensive use of non-degradable concrete and oil byproducts we have known in the post war period. At the start of the century the forefathers of modern architecture of the caliber of Le Corbusier, Alvar Aalto, Frank Lloyd Wright, Walter Gropius, Mies van der Rohe or Lois Kahn, only to mention a few, started a revolution increasing the spans of bearing structures, widening windows, reflecting the environment with entire glass facades and making natural light and open spaces the protagonists. A new revolution is underway today, from 3D printing to modular construction, and architects are exploring new avenues to streamline the building process and reduce waste, reflecting the local geology to establish authenticity ad a sense of place. Materials such as aluminium, cross-laminated timber (CLT), Hemp derivatives and engineered bamboo are gaining popularity for their sustainability and versatility, offering architects unprecedented eco-conscious freedom in design while maintaining structural integrity.
Smart Homes and Integrated Technologies
The concept of the smart home is no longer confined to science fiction. In the future of architecture, homes are becoming increasingly interconnected with integrated technologies seamlessly woven into the fabric of daily life. Implementing the use of smart appliances and energy management systems, residential architecture is embracing the new technology to enhance comfort, convenience and security.
Introduction
Residential architecture, the art and science of designing living spaces, is undergoing a profound transformation mirroring our ever faster changing lifestyle. Architects, more than ever before, are becoming an increasingly crucial factor in the development of our daily lives. All our activities take place in some shape of building, be it where we live, study, work or relax. As we stride into the future, architects are challenged to redefine the very essence of what it means to call a place 'home'. From sustainability and technological integration to community-centric design, the future of residential architecture promises to reshape our living environment in more human ways often lost in making space for bare mechanical progress and political games.
Sustainability and Eco-Conscious Design
Coming from the pre-second-millennium old school, my main excitement about surging young architects is due to the current prominent design and planning trends focusing on care for the environment and sustainability. With increasing awareness of environmental issues, up and coming architects are pioneering designs that minimise carbon footprints while maximising energy efficiency. From passive solar design principles to incorporating “green roofs” and utilising recycled materials, eco-conscious contemporary residential architecture aims to harmonise with the natural world rather than impose upon it.
Innovative Building Materials Selection and Techniques
Advancements in technology have paved the way for the adoption of innovative building materials and construction techniques partially pulling away from the extensive use of non-degradable concrete and oil byproducts we have known in the post war period. At the start of the century the forefathers of modern architecture of the caliber of Le Corbusier, Alvar Aalto, Frank Lloyd Wright, Walter Gropius, Mies van der Rohe or Lois Kahn, only to mention a few, started a revolution increasing the spans of bearing structures, widening windows, reflecting the environment with entire glass facades and making natural light and open spaces the protagonists. A new revolution is underway today, from 3D printing to modular construction, and architects are exploring new avenues to streamline the building process and reduce waste, reflecting the local geology to establish authenticity ad a sense of place. Materials such as aluminium, cross-laminated timber (CLT), Hemp derivatives and engineered bamboo are gaining popularity for their sustainability and versatility, offering architects unprecedented eco-conscious freedom in design while maintaining structural integrity.
Smart Homes and Integrated Technologies
The concept of the smart home is no longer confined to science fiction. In the future of architecture, homes are becoming increasingly interconnected with integrated technologies seamlessly woven into the fabric of daily life. Implementing the use of smart appliances and energy management systems, residential architecture is embracing the new technology to enhance comfort, convenience and security.
Time optimisation has become a precious commodity, and architects are the main gears in smoothing the transition between action and relax, providing the optimal environmental solutions to a balanced human-centric lifestyle. Intelligent, creative and responsible architecture can assure we preserve our human side by surrounding ourselves with elements that keep us in touch with the astonishing nature populating our planet.
Flexible and Adaptable Living Spaces
The traditional notion of static living spaces is giving way to a more fluid and adaptable approach. Architects are designing homes that can easily adapt to changing needs and lifestyles, whether it's accommodating multigenerational living arrangements, workspaces, and recreational areas. Flexible floor plans enable residents to customise their living environment according to their preferences, fostering a sense of ownership and personalisation.
Biophilic Design and Wellness
Incorporating elements of nature into residential architecture is a growing trend come to be known as biophilic design. From large windows framing picturesque views to indoor gardens and natural materials, biophilic design seeks to reconnect occupants with the natural world, promoting health and well-being. Recent research has confirmed that exposure to nature has a positive impact on mental and physical health, making biophilic design an ever more essential consideration in the future of residential architecture.
Community-Centric Designs and Shared Spaces
The future of architecture extends beyond individual dwellings to encompass entire communities. Architects are reimagining neighbourhoods as vibrant, interconnected ecosystems where residents can live and socialise harmoniously. Shared amenities such as community gardens, educational spaces and recreational facilities foster a sense of belonging and encourage interaction. By prioritising community-centric designs and mixed zoning, architecture can drive towards creating sustainable and resilient neighbourhoods thriving on collaboration and mutual support.
Flexible and Adaptable Living Spaces
The traditional notion of static living spaces is giving way to a more fluid and adaptable approach. Architects are designing homes that can easily adapt to changing needs and lifestyles, whether it's accommodating multigenerational living arrangements, workspaces, and recreational areas. Flexible floor plans enable residents to customise their living environment according to their preferences, fostering a sense of ownership and personalisation.
Biophilic Design and Wellness
Incorporating elements of nature into residential architecture is a growing trend come to be known as biophilic design. From large windows framing picturesque views to indoor gardens and natural materials, biophilic design seeks to reconnect occupants with the natural world, promoting health and well-being. Recent research has confirmed that exposure to nature has a positive impact on mental and physical health, making biophilic design an ever more essential consideration in the future of residential architecture.
Community-Centric Designs and Shared Spaces
The future of architecture extends beyond individual dwellings to encompass entire communities. Architects are reimagining neighbourhoods as vibrant, interconnected ecosystems where residents can live and socialise harmoniously. Shared amenities such as community gardens, educational spaces and recreational facilities foster a sense of belonging and encourage interaction. By prioritising community-centric designs and mixed zoning, architecture can drive towards creating sustainable and resilient neighbourhoods thriving on collaboration and mutual support.
If we look at recent progress in understanding quantum physics, architects and town planners could learn from a fundamental quantum effect called entanglement. In fact entanglement shows that reality is not characterised by separation. There are no separate elements of reality because the separation is not of this world. The laws of the universe tell us that the universe is inclusive and pervaded by interconnections at all levels and that separation does not exist, but is eventually created artificially. Zoning an urban area by severing the human daily activities into residential, commercial, educational and recreational is not a natural process and responsible architects are learning to avoid it. As planners are learning that liveable urban spaces develop following a natural organic evolution, a collective share of a site with buildings and public services embracing participation, change and playfulness. Designing spaces that welcome people as in an unfolding dance, making them partners, giving it life without getting in the way.
Resilient and Disaster-Resistant Designs
With the frequency of natural disasters, resilience has also become a key consideration in residential architecture. Architects are integrating disaster-resistant features such as flood-proofing, earthquake-resistant structures, and fire-resistant materials into their designs to mitigate the impact of adverse events. By prioritising resilience, residential architecture not only ensures the safety and well-being of occupants but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of communities in the face of natural environmental challenges.
Conclusion
Providing that greed and developers' and politicians' prioritised personal gains are kept at bay and within reason, the future of residential architecture offers a dynamic landscape shaped by innovation, sustainability, and human-centric design principles. From eco-conscious dwellings that tread lightly on the planet to smart homes anticipating our needs, architects can push the boundaries of what possible and create living environments that are both functional and inspiring. As we embrace new technologies and a deeper understanding of current human needs and aspirations, residential architecture has the power to transform not only the spaces we inhabit but the way we live our lives.
Resilient and Disaster-Resistant Designs
With the frequency of natural disasters, resilience has also become a key consideration in residential architecture. Architects are integrating disaster-resistant features such as flood-proofing, earthquake-resistant structures, and fire-resistant materials into their designs to mitigate the impact of adverse events. By prioritising resilience, residential architecture not only ensures the safety and well-being of occupants but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of communities in the face of natural environmental challenges.
Conclusion
Providing that greed and developers' and politicians' prioritised personal gains are kept at bay and within reason, the future of residential architecture offers a dynamic landscape shaped by innovation, sustainability, and human-centric design principles. From eco-conscious dwellings that tread lightly on the planet to smart homes anticipating our needs, architects can push the boundaries of what possible and create living environments that are both functional and inspiring. As we embrace new technologies and a deeper understanding of current human needs and aspirations, residential architecture has the power to transform not only the spaces we inhabit but the way we live our lives.