Erskine Street Residence by B.E Architecture

Balancing a geometric form with soft yet robust materiality, Erskine Street Residence is an impenetrable oasis in the heart of South Melbourne.

Nestled at the end of a row of Victorian worker’s cottages in the bayside suburb of Middle Park, from the street, the home appears monolithic and almost windowless at first; an exterior with white in-situ concrete and limestone offers a striking counterpoint to the streetscape. The home, designed by Andrew Piva and Duncan McLeary of B.E Architecture, features one main bedroom with separate guest accommodations as well as wellness spaces and an extensive cellar.

The unique combination of materials culminates in an intriguing fusion of Japanese and Parisian 19th-century architecture, embodying a sacred feel.

In a considered juxtaposition to the exterior, the interior feels soft and light. The white in-situ concrete on the outside seamlessly makes its way indoors, complemented by pale grey Bolzano limestone that lines the walls from floor to ceiling. The pared-back finish of the stone beautifully showcases the client’s art collection, while the oak timber of the joinery and sliding screens that separate different rooms add warmth.

The unique combination of materials culminates in an intriguing fusion of Japanese and Parisian 19th-century architecture, embodying a sacred feel. This timeless aesthetic is accentuated by smaller details; a cast iron radiator sits in front of large plate glass windows, while an in-situ concrete chimney with a chain mail fire curtain nods to early modernist architecture.

Beneath the solid outer shell – inside is light-filled – illuminated by strategically placed skylights and a series of walled gardens that feature dwarfed black pines, maples and juniper bonsai.

Beneath the solid outer shell – inside is light-filled – illuminated by strategically placed skylights and a series of walled gardens that feature dwarfed black pines, maples and juniper bonsai. Overlooking one of the many feature gardens, the main bedroom’s ensuite is perhaps the most sacred room within the home. A large bath formed within a concrete structure is complemented by a custom stainless steel bath spout; it is both bold and meditative. In this way, the internal lightness contributes to the architectural form without contradicting the sense of solidity.

B.E Architecture creates a timeless and deeply nurturing home. A place to rest and recover, Erskine Street Residence is a soothing retreat from the chaos of daily life.

Architecture, interior design and styling by B.E Architecture. Build by Dome Builders.