Form and Function – Kennett River House by MGAO

Unapologetic in its frank form, Kennett River House by MGAO is a testament to functionalism, with great consideration of the surrounding landscape. Through unembellished interiors and sharp distinctions of material, this residence is a far cry from usual busy homes.

Whilst its black exterior stands out sharply from the hillside ridge, the layout of Kennett River House is carefully arranged to be defined by three prominent views: Bass Straight, the Great Ocean Road and the surrounding township. In keeping with the brief for this holiday home, MGAO has designed a residence “far removed from any notion of domesticity,” Matt Goodman, Director of MGAO, says. Rather than conforming to traditional notions of a dwelling, the emphasis of this project is placed on functional spaces for daily life; an abstract, crisp-white space for bathing, minimalist places for sleeping and a shared living room that boasts seamless Australian timber joinery.

The restraint of each space is successful in allowing the “internal experience of the house to be as ever changing as the natural landscape surrounding it,” Matt says.

By paring each of these spaces back, the aspects framed in each box window take precedence and inform the interior functions. The muted green of the bedroom enhances the view towards the surrounding bushland without detracting from it. The perspective of Bass Straight from the living area immediately draws the eye, whilst the uniform character of the bathing space lends significance to the Great Ocean Road. The restraint of each space is successful in allowing the “internal experience of the house to be as ever changing as the natural landscape surrounding it,” Matt says.

The principle of ‘form follows function’ is hinted at in the architect’s choice of furniture. The No. B9 Le Corbusier chair by Thonet complements the living space, whilst an Alvar Aalto bench is prominent in the entryway. These famous architects were both pioneers of modernism. However, where Le Corbusier championed simplicity of shape and colour, Aalto delved into natural geometry and materials. These two ideals are evident in the contrasting spaces of this holiday home, with the stark simplicity of the sleeping and bathing spaces and the warm timbers enveloping every surface of the central living room.

The absolute nature of these interior impressions is, once more, consistent with the original design intent – the practice of living is more significant than the appearance of it.

Throughout the residence, there are distinct atmospheres to complement the differing functions of each space. The imposing dark cladding outside is uninterrupted, markedly turning into the softened tones of the lower hallway upon entry. Continuing through to the staircase, the shift into timber joinery is once again striking, signifying a change in purpose for the use of the following living space. The absolute nature of these interior impressions is, once more, consistent with the original design intent – the practice of living is more significant than the appearance of it. MGAO’s delivery of this purposeful holiday home is sincere and committed to fulfilling its ambition.