Balwyn House by Wall Architects

In the leafy Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne, Balwyn House captures the attention of passers-by. Designed by Wall Architects, this blonde brick abode, with its striking facade and thoughtfully crafted interiors, redefines suburban luxury for a growing family seeking respite from city life.

The house greets visitors with an upright form, split in two. Vertical elements, constructed from delicate blonde brick, emphasises its height, while cantilevered features and sloping window reveals add sculptural interest. Interspersed with brick pillars, recessive elements create a dynamic interplay of light, lending rhythm to the front facade. This bold gesture sets the tone for the architectural journey that unfolds within.

Eschewing the typical minimalist aesthetic, the design opts instead for a palette of white tones and sinuous forms.

A defining feature of Balwyn House is its seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Expansive windows and skylights dissolve the boundaries between the interior and the landscape, flooding the home with natural light and framing uninterrupted views of the garden, designed by Jack Merlo. The skylights, particularly above the sculptural staircase, add another dynamic layer to the home. By inviting the ever-changing sky indoors, they create a vibrant atmosphere that shifts with the passing hours and weather conditions. This interplay of light and shadow transforms the staircase into a captivating centrepiece – one that marries both beauty and functionality.

Upon crossing the threshold, the blonde brick exterior gives way to warm, light-filled interiors, creating a timeless retreat for the family. Occupants are enveloped by interiors awash with natural light that bathes sweeping, curved surfaces. Eschewing the typical minimalist aesthetic, the design opts instead for a palette of white tones and sinuous forms. This approach imbues each space with an inviting ambiance, striking a perfect balance between elegance and comfort. The flowing lines and soft hues amplify the sense of openness, ensuring every corner feels considered and comfortable. Feature lighting, both functional and delicate, is sculptural in form, complementing the overall atmosphere of calm refinement.

The cohesive palette is designed to evolve and enrich the space over time rather than being fully resolved from the outset.

Custom timber joinery and rich hardwood floors offer a striking counterpoint to the white walls and ceilings. The bespoke joinery showcases exquisite craftsmanship, integrating storage and display space while maintaining a minimalist ethos. Natural stone features throughout, complementing adjacent tones and highlighting key elements of the interior. Wet areas are defined by muted, textured walls paired with fine mosaics and stone accents. Meanwhile, the hardwood floors add depth and texture, with their natural grain and warmness enhancing the overall feel of the interiors.

Collaborating closely with the art-loving clients, a curated collection of objects and furnishings has been used to infuse each space with personality. The cohesive palette is designed to evolve and enrich the space over time rather than being fully resolved from the outset. These pieces complement the interior design, integrating with the architectural expression to create a home that is both stylish and personal.

Wall Architects has created a sophisticated sanctuary for its residents.

Wall Architects has created a sophisticated sanctuary for its residents. The result is a home that exemplifies meticulous attention to detail, with every aspect carefully considered to create a living environment that is both beautiful and truly liveable.

Architecture and interior design by Wall Architects. Build by WB Built. Landscape design by Jack Merlo.