There’s a reason why architects, like artists, love starting with a blank canvas. Existing structures can pose parameters, but a blessing in the form of an empty block of land provides endless possibility and room for creativity. Recognising this, the project team involved in this fabulous abode left no stone unturned to devise an imaginative plan that eventuated in a unique family home.
“This project, along with other Robeson Architects projects, emphasised quality over quantity,” says Simone Robeson, director of Robeson Architects. “In Perth especially, houses are too often built boundary to boundary, maximising the floor area in order to cater for the four-bed, three-bath, ‘design for resale’ ideology. A lot of our designs feature flexible and adaptable spaces, which allow for smarter living on a smaller footprint. Our work always challenges what a home typically is and looks like.”
Though the empty site presented a challenge in the form of a 2.5m fall from the front of the block to the back, the team approached this as an opportunity to design a unique split-level home, complete with a desirable northern orientation.
Dramatic forms take centre stage throughout Mount Pleasant House, particularly along its exterior. “From the street, rectilinear forms dominate, showcasing a modern and simple composition with minimal openings for privacy,” Simone notes. Yet the abode is endlessly homely and inviting within.
A clean, minimal material palette was chosen in line with the client’s request for a Scandinavian-inspired feel. Four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a powder room, a spacious living area and an outdoor dining space were all integrated into the design while staying true to the goal of creating a functional, efficient space with lots of storage.
The living room’s soaring high ceiling, which permits plentiful winter sunlight to permeate the room, was made possible thanks to the orientation of the home and the decision not to build above this space. Though the clients originally had their heart set on having the living room capture the city views, which would have resulted in an upside-down house of sorts, they later realised a strong connection to the garden would be a critical part of the design for their three active young boys. With this in mind, the ground-floor living area was designed to flow seamlessly out to the garden.
“The living space comprising kitchen, dining and lounge is rectangular in form and runs in a north-south orientation with the length of the block. Pushed to the west, it allowed for an eastern courtyard that opens to the kitchen, allowing morning sun to flow through,” Simone shares. A charming covered outdoor dining area sits in an optimal spot between the garden and courtyard area, allowing the family to enjoy the surrounding lush greenery while dining alfresco on warm, starry nights. The home’s front elevation was designed to also house the garage and one bedroom.
Mount Pleasant House’s only two-storey portion is located on the street side. Containing the master bedroom and a beautiful ensuite, it is a haven for the adults of the family. This is where the parents escape to at the end of the day to enjoy some peace, tranquillity and dazzling views of the city lights beyond.
Comfort and liveability were key considerations for this project as Mount Pleasant House is to be a long-term family home. All rooms within, as well as the alfresco area, have ceiling fans fitted to keep occupants cool during long, hot Perth summers. The northern eaves were sized to allow for low winter sun to heat up the house and prevent high summer sun from entering, and glazed louvres are strategically placed throughout the house to provide extra passive cooling.
Armed with the knowledge that the size of the project directly influences cost, the project team took a creative approach to the two kids’ bedrooms to stay within budget. Instead of creating a separate play room, a concealed cavity sliding wall was designed between the two rooms. While the wall can be opened up to form one giant playroom whenever the boys wish, it can be closed permanently when the children grow older and want more privacy. “From all reports so far, the kids in this household refuse to close the wall at all, loving the fact they can all sleep in the same room,” Simone says.
Encompassing warmth, practicality, and plenty of room to grow, there’s no doubt Mount Pleasant House will be cherished by its occupants for years to come.
