Australian Capital Territory
East West House draws inspiration from Eastern cultural values within a contemporary Western setting. Initial conversations with the client explored an understanding of their time spent living and working in Asia and their connection to Asian cultural values. Our design response was to interpret the traditional concept of the Siheyuan, or courtyard house within an Australian suburban context as part of the brief resolution to value outdoor space as much as indoor space. The design centres around the internal courtyard, seamlessly integrating the home with its surroundings while also emanating a feeling of privacy and seclusion from the outside world.
Light, space, area for art, and flexibility to accommodate a growing child to adulthood. That was the only sentence we gave to Steven. Stevens inspiration and design gave us that home; of which our family are all very proud.
The quality of natural light warms the home and the mood. The space and layout gives privacy but we are still connected with a glance.
The home gives a grateful nod to parents who walked Melbournes bluestone streets; seen in our central hallway. An acknowledgement to our life in Asia and family members still there with flow between inside and outdoors.
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
