Brick House by Studio Roam and With Architecture Studio

Words by Bronwyn Marshall
Photography by Jack Lovel
Styling by Loam

Nestled within the tree-lined streets of inner Perth, Brick House eloquently showcases the composition of its parts in celebration of the home’s craftsmanship. Studio Roam and With Architecture Studio bring to life a complex client brief, drawing inspiration from various sources, which ultimately leads to an authentic and honest use of materials.

Brick House stands as a multi-storey terrace, replacing an existing heritage cottage on site, with plans for an additional residence in the future. Studio Roam and With Architecture Studio blend the home’s historical roots with a vision for its future. The allure of creating a unique rendition of a modern dwelling from the ground up appealed to the owners, who both have a strong inclination towards residential design. Given their interest, the design and construction journey became a collaborative endeavour for the clients, integrating various sources of inspiration along the way.

Unexpectedly, attention was paid to the mortar detailing, resulting in an accidental yet serendipitous discovery: the decision to preserve the appearance of squeezed mortar between each brick.

At its core, a home serves as a place of rest. The need for a space to disconnect and recharge underpins most residential briefs, and Brick House is no exception. As the abode’s name suggests, brick emerged as a central theme, consistently weaving through the design to yield a bold, rectilinear and crisp red brick structure on site. Unexpectedly, attention was paid to the mortar detailing, resulting in an accidental yet serendipitous discovery: the decision to preserve the appearance of squeezed mortar between each brick. This deliberate detail adds depth to the exterior and accentuates the texture of the surface.

Deciding to build upwards serves a dual purpose: it optimises the available floor space while also allowing for the integration of a second dwelling in future development phases. Serving as a resilient outer shell, the masonry of the brick exudes a sense of permanence, symbolising both strength and protection for the collected treasures of the owners. This juxtaposition allows the residence to embody both expressive design and secure enclosure. Internally, a similar durability and resilience is upheld, with polished concrete flooring and other surfaces selected for their enduing quality. Every intricate junction within the house bears the imprint of those who contributed to its creation, preserving their memory within its fabric.

Every intricate junction within the house bears the imprint of those who contributed to its creation, preserving their memory within its fabric.

Brick House feels as storied as the pieces displayed within it. Studio Roam and With Architecture Studio craft a home that seamlessly integrates into its residential setting from a distance, yet upon closer inspection, reveals its distinctive, subtle character – a feat in itself.

Architecture by Studio Roam and With Architecture Studio. Interior design by Studio Roam. Build by Assemble Building Co.