Eyrie Residence | Schmölzer Architecture

Eyrie Residence | Schmölzer Architecture | Photographer: Timothy Kaye

2026 National Architecture Awards Program

Eyrie Residence | Schmölzer Architecture

Traditional Land Owners

Waywurru

Year
2026
Chapter

Victoria

Category
Residential Architecture – Houses (New)
Builder
J&L Armstrong Builders Pty Ltd
Photographer
Timothy Kaye
Media summary

Perched on the crest of an escarpment near Beechworth, the Eyrie Residence is a restrained architectural response to a dramatic landscape, conceived around the idea of inhabiting the edge. Concealed on approach, the house is revealed through a neutral concrete wall that establishes a clear threshold between the expansive landscape and protected internal spaces. A central courtyard anchors a series of pavilions unified by a low roof plane, providing spatial clarity and climatic responsiveness.

The residence is aligned to capture views to the Victorian Alps, with terraces and cantilevers creating a sense of floating above the escarpment. A zoned courtyard separates private and guest accommodation while maintaining strong visual connections, with living spaces opening seamlessly to sheltered outdoor areas and a horizon pool. Integrated landscape, structural and environmental strategies support passive performance and durability. Through subtle materiality and siting, the home privileges experience and longevity within its remarkable setting.

Our home offers a sense of retreat and protection while remaining constantly connected to the landscape, the changing weather and the distant views across the mountains and valleys of Northeast Victoria. The layout and spaces are intuitive and calm, with indoor and outdoor living flowing seamlessly. Whether for quiet retreat or large gatherings, the house and landscape provides the right balance of generous and intimate spaces. We look forward to seeing the house patina, and settle into its hilltop nest, and look forward to sharing it for many years with our extended family.

Project Practice Team

Jeremy Schmolzer, Project Architect

Project Consultant and Construction Team

Kusch, Structural Engineer
SUHO, ESD Consultant

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