Refined Openness – Parsley House by Hancock Architects

Through an open dialogue with the surrounding landscape, Parsley House emerges as a home that exemplifies contemporary refinement, tranquillity and disconnection. Hancock Architects proposes a series of modernist volumes that traverse the rich, natural terrain and blur thresholds between inside and out.

Parsley House embraces the outdoors with a design that is generous in scale and offers a unique interpretation of contemporary boldness. The multiple levels are cleverly concealed and nestled into the landscape, yet once within, the true volume of the home is revealed. Large, expansive zones transition into one another, inviting the outside in as well as ensuring natural light and ventilation flow throughout. Located in Vaucluse, an eastern suburb of Sydney, the residence matches the spirit and energy of its young owners. Inspired by a midcentury and modernist aesthetic, Hancock Architects imbues the dwelling with a bespoke style that captures the essence of place.

The multiple levels are cleverly concealed and nestled into the landscape, yet once within, the true volume of the home is revealed.

The floor plan of the existing residence was reimagined to allow for ease of movement between spaces and across thresholds. Dissolving the thresholds played an important part in how the landscape connects with the interior, which, in turn, references the natural surrounds. The exterior features a series of moveable blades and deep reveals that frame views outward and control the amount of incoming air and sunlight, enhancing a sense of openness felt throughout the home.

Originally designed by Weir Phillips Architects in the early 2000s, the house incorporates the characters of its owners into the fabric of the design. Therefore, it was key that the residence be both flexible and functional to allow for varying occupancy levels when accommodating family and guests alike. By integrating extensive glazing throughout, the architect changed the overall atmosphere of the home, enhancing connections between the natural and built elements. A neutral base palette is activated through a curated selection of furniture, allowing each piece to be celebrated and create moments of contrast.

The exterior features a series of moveable blades and deep reveals that frame views outward and control the amount of incoming air and sunlight, enhancing a sense of openness felt throughout the home.

Through an expansion across the site, the presence of Parsley House is enhanced and rejuvenated. By applying layered tones and subtleties throughout, Hancock Architects optimises the calm, tranquil nature of the home.