The stunning Northcote house
It’s little wonder that this eye-catching design by Melanie Beynon Architecture has been shortlisted for the People’s Choice award in the Australian Timber Design Awards.
The warmth, tactility, craftsmanship and attention to detail all make the heart sing. The beautiful grain of the Tasmanian Oak is on show in the cladding selected for the walls and ceilings, which, combined with the lush handmade tiles and exposed reclaimed brick provide the ultimate backdrop for the equally stunning furnishings.
In the words of architect Melanie Beynon: ‘The house was planned with two zones (one for adults and one for children). Located at opposite ends of the house, the central living space connects the two areas. The newly built family living room is a voluminous and tactile space, featuring exposed Tasmanian Oak timber panels on the walls and pitched ceiling, complementing the reclaimed brick walls and handmade Anchor Ceramic tiles.’
‘Large sliding doors expose this spacious room to natural light, leading to a raised deck, great for outdoor entertaining. The tactile detailing extends to the exterior of the house and features a saw-tooth roofline, raw cedar shingles and shiplap cladding on the walls. These timber elements will silver in time, allowing the new extension to settle into its surroundings.’
Sustainability Notes
- Renewable Tasmanian oak cladding & timber detail
- Reclaimed bricks
- Designed to maximise natural light
Customised joinery and storage units are found throughout the house in unexpected locations, offering dual access to separated spaces. Patricia Urquiola door handles and handmade paper pendants reflect the owner’s appreciation for crafted pieces, which will endure with the home and family as they grow.
Photography by Tom Blachford.
