Mont Albert B&W House by Ben Callery Architects
Located in Melbourne, Australia, Mont Albert B&W House is a modern single family house designed in 2015 by Ben Callery Architects.
About Mont Albert B&W House
Designing a Dream: The Journey Begins
A family of four, including two passionate horticulturalists, embarked on a mission to build their dream home. They chose to lead the construction themselves and made their first decision by selecting Cantilever Interiors for their kitchen design.
Cantilever Interiors, recognizing the potential for a harmonious design collaboration, recommended that the family hire us for the overall house design. Our previous collaborations with Cantilever had fostered a strong working relationship, built on mutual respect for design and a shared aesthetic vision, perfectly aligning with the family’s needs.
Crafting Spaces: A Seamless Integration
This project presented an exciting chance to create a living space that would not only showcase but also enhance the unique qualities of Cantilever’s locally made kitchens. We focused on their bespoke materials, intricate detailing, and commitment to environmental sustainability.
The house’s addition features an elegant and compact L-shaped plan. Positioned at the heart of this layout is the kitchen, serving as the pivotal point. The dining area lies to the north, seamlessly transitioning to an outdoor entertaining space, while the living area is tucked away at the back, offering views of an impeccably maintained lawn— the hallmark of true horticulturalists.
Light and Space: Architectural Harmony
A distinctive raking roof, featuring a north-facing clerestory window, rises above, ushering light and warmth deep into the home. This asymmetrical design element echoes Cantilever’s balanced approach to elevation composition, achieving a harmonious architectural dialogue.
The interior’s color scheme is deliberately restrained, dominated by black and white. This palette is interrupted only by the plywood roof (complemented by timber windows), echoing Cantilever’s preference for monochromatic surfaces highlighted by wooden accents.
Connecting With Nature: A Serene Retreat
The raking ceiling and a uniquely designed corner ‘bay’ window draw light from the side, forging a deep connection between the home’s occupants and their surroundings. These architectural features, much like the standout elements in the cabinetry, are designed to stand out. The warm timber tones glow against the backdrop of black, white, and the vibrant green of the garden, creating a serene retreat for the family.
In this journey of creation, every choice made—from the overarching design philosophy to the meticulous selection of materials—reflects a deep understanding of the family’s lifestyle and aspirations, culminating in a home that is not just a place to live, but a reflection of their passion and creativity.
Photography courtesy of Ben Callery Architects
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- by Matt Watts
