FIGR.009 Top Peak
Freshly Redefined
In the vibrant suburb of Richmond, a peculiar urban dwelling emerges, seamlessly blending old and new while maximizing a small footprint for flexibility and longevity. This project builds upon our interest in prolonged occupation of urban dwellings in a world of increasing density. Through careful planning and thoughtful design, it maximizes a small footprint to create a home that embodies flexibility, longevity, and the spirit of adaptation.
TYPE
Residential Private, Additions and Alternations
PROGRAMMATIC BRIEF
Bedroom 1 + 2, Bathroom + Laundry, Living Area, Kitchen, Dining, Retreat, Study, Courtyard, Store/Shed.
LOCATION
Richmond, Victoria 3121, Australia
STATUS
Complete
DESIGN AND DOCUMENTATION
12 Months
AREA
160 m2
COUNCIL
City of Yarra
COUNTRY
Wurundjeri
"colour emerges as a backdrop to showcase the client’s passion for vibrant art, infusing the residence with personality and charm"
"Reflections, both literal and metaphorical, play a pivotal role in the design."
"Stretched and elongated vistas through outdoor spaces create a sense of continuity, seamlessly integrating the landscaped areas with the interior."
"flexibility, longevity, and the spirit of adaptation"
Credits.
PROJECT TEAM
Adi Atic, Michael Artemenko, Bowen Jessup, Barbie Vongphone
BUILDER
BYDE Construction Pty Ltd
ENGINEER
Meyer Consulting Pty Ltd
PHOTOGRAPHY
Tom Blachford
STYLING
FIGR
A process of discovery.
Situated in the bustling suburb of Richmond in Melbourne, amidst the constant movement of delivery trucks, bicycles, and never-ending vehicle traffic, a notable architectural project emerges. Occupying a modest 175m2 site with dual street frontages, this residence is an experiment in the possibilities of urban densification. Here, within the confines of this minute space, a home is carefully crafted, reflecting the vibrance and richness of its surroundings.
The project takes inspiration from its surroundings and context and reinterprets its findings through a contemporary lense.
Light assumes a crucial role, deftly harnessed to create varied moods and atmospheres throughout the residence.
Ideation.
Unlike the conventional approach of tacking on an open-plan extension to the back of an existing house, this design takes a deliberate departure. It seeks to seamlessly blend the old and the new, creating distinct living zones that revolve around a central hub. This unique layout offers flexibility and the potential for future adaptation, allowing the dwelling to be divided into two separate units that share a central kitchen and dining zone. The emphasis is on long-term occupation and the opportunity for the owner to generate income by compartmentalizing the home.
The elongated shape of the site is artfully exploited in the plan, with the kitchen area serving as the pivotal element that connects the living and sleeping zones. In this dwelling designed for multi- generational living and guest accommodation, the program is divided into two halves, each with its own identity.
The design showcases an effecting interplay of materials, contrasting timber, concrete, and light tones. These contrasting elements define thresholds and guide inhabitants on a journey that converges on the heart of the space—the spotted gum plywood-clad kitchen and dining zone.
The architecture employs a play of compression and release in volume, instilling a sense of drama and anticipation within the space. Transitions between areas are carefully choreographed, inviting occupants to experience the interplay between different atmospheres.
Craft.
It congenially weaves together contrasting materials, harnesses light, embraces the passage of time, and invites occupants on a captivating journey through its craftily designed spaces.
Credits.
PROJECT TEAM
Adi Atic, Michael Artemenko, Bowen Jessup, Barbie Vongphone
BUILDER
BYDE Construction Pty Ltd
ENGINEER
Meyer Consulting Pty Ltd
PHOTOGRAPHY
Tom Blachford
STYLING
FIGR
