Calm and Reflective – Mount Martha by Carr and Intermode

As a composed addition befitting of its outlook, Mount Martha combines a removed and rural attitude within a more densified setting. Carr and Intermode worked closely together to ensure the vision of their owners was realised upon their return to Australia.

Aligned with the water, the approach and façade of Mount Martha takes inspiration from the surrounds and a desire to create a meaningful connection to context. As an expression of place, finding ways for the inside and outside to coalesce became an important component of the home’s story. Born from a unique situation where the clients engaged and worked with both Carr and Intermode, the team was entrusted to design and deliver the home in the clients’ absence. At the core of the structure is a feeling of calm and restfulness, both capturing the location and the forthcoming chapter for its owners.

Muted tones soften the contrast of the otherwise quite monochromatic feel of the home and enhance the will to immerse within the spaces.

The resulting openings and inset terrace spaces are outwardly focused yet nestle into the main form, balancing views and optimising solar gain at the same time. Built by VCON together with landscape design by John Patrick Landscape Architects, Mount Martha navigates a steeply sloping site by stretching the functionality vertically whilst encasing the overall home as if it were one consolidated mass. The garage sits concealed behind its integrated frontage, where a subtle opening in the façade opens to allow access. The lap pool marks the entry, affording uninterrupted views out over Port Phillip Bay ¬– the strategic placement of such a large body of water offers a reflective and meditative element from the onset.

Although facing west, by carefully articulating the solid and transparent elements of the outdoor areas, the angle and intensity of the incoming sun is controlled. In gratitude to the location, views are framed throughout that act as a reminder of place. In contrast, through a consistent materiality palette and more intimate areas, a calming atmosphere of seclusion is achieved. Muted tones soften the contrast of the otherwise quite monochromatic feel of the home and enhance the will to immerse within the spaces.

In gratitude to the location, views are framed throughout that act as a reminder of place.

As a crisp and highly detailed insertion on the coast, Mount Martha optimises the assets of the site. Carr and Intermode ensure, through a refined and restrained approach, that the home will continue to remain relevant and connected to place for many years to come.