Restrained Permanence – Asling by Finnis Architects

Unlike many commercially driven developments, Asling is envisioned to offer a legacy for both the inhabitants and the surrounding area. Finnis utilises a rich and textural palette of finishes to create a crisp and clearly defined form that references a classical grandeur and generous scale yet also feels considerately modest.

Asling is comprised of six townhouses that align along a single strip in Brighton, in bayside Melbourne. Stacking the homes side by side creates a series of individual dwellings that exemplify the higher-density approach and a more efficient use of available land in the process. The row formation takes inspiration from traditional Victorian- and Georgian-era terrace homes that first populated inner cities and then spread into the inner suburbs. As a contemporary revision of this past typology, the development ensures a connection with the past remains.

The row formation takes inspiration from traditional Victorian- and Georgian-era terrace homes that first populated inner cities and then spread into the inner suburbs.

Finnis envisions Asling’s relevance will continue for many decades, becoming a place where memories are created and a lasting impression is made. From this core philosophy, the planning of each of these connected homes plays a key role in creating a sense of separation and retreat from both the street and adjoining neighbours. The finishes have been considered and a blurring of thresholds emphasises a depth to the façade, further drawing one inwards – away from the world outside. Bringing natural connections into each home was also key, softening the harder elements on site and allowing the changing environmental and climatic conditions throughout the day to enliven the spaces.

The material palette too tells a story of longevity. Natural stone, metal and timber offer a sense of lasting quality. The solidity of the brick façade adds to that narrative, anchoring the homes in place. Internally, the overall calm created using muted tones both lowers the energy levels of the spaces and allows moments of curiosity and playful-ness to be added by the occupants over time. Each part of Asling reflects the depth of consideration and care that has gone into its creation. Combining the distinct generosity of scale of the nearby Brighton homes with the efficiencies and charm of traditional terrace housing, Finnis deftly weaves the new in with the old.

Each part of Asling reflects the depth of consideration and care that has gone into its creation.

Each part of Asling reflects the depth of consideration and care that has gone into its creation. Combining the distinct generosity of scale of the nearby Brighton homes with the efficiencies and charm of traditional terrace housing, Finnis deftly weaves the new in with the old.