Modern Life in Nature – Burran Avenue Residence by Matthew Woodward Architecture
Undertaking a total transformation, Matthew Woodward Architecture breathes modern life into Burran Avenue. With a focus on opening the structure to connect with the surrounding landscape and harbour views, a raw and contemporary material palette aids in crafting a home of enduring warmth.
Originally built in the 1930s, Burran Avenue Residence had been unsympathetically modified over time. Reinterpreting the space for 21st century use, Matthew Woodward Architecture undertook the complete transformation, reflecting principles of modernism with respectful nods to the home’s past. In keeping with the firm’s practices, Burran Avenue is established as a reprieve from city life, allowing a true connection with nature.
Previously a home of mixed modifications, Burran Avenue was transformed to represent the modern age of living. From opening walls to extending rooms, the home presents itself as an entirely new structure, with hints of its past seen in the façade and small design choices. Occupants are greeted with floor-to-ceiling windows that open the house out to its surrounds. The lower ground floor modifications include a new double garage, entry foyer and cloak room whilst a generous outdoor terrace on the ground floor gives wide views of the harbour. The added terrace in turn becomes an extension of the dining room and entertainment area in an embrace of nature; its many moments becoming the backdrop for all living spaces. Additions to the ground and first level see updated living rooms, a study overlooking the harbour and a new master suite.
A conscious and restrained material palette is expressed throughout, accentuating a smooth relation between the modern and classic. Concrete columns and warm timber accents create a contrasting rawness whilst the crisp white walls and light timber flooring combine in celebration through connected spaces. Muted tonal choices complement the gallery ambience created by framed openings between spaces and plain white walls throughout. The house is then filled with furniture and art that harmoniously work with the modernisation of the house and gardens.
Incorporated throughout the renovation was an entire landscape redesign, opening the house to the garden. The rear garden becomes a backdrop for the ground floor living spaces, embracing the aesthetic of open family living. The floor plan gives the interior access to the natural by way of wide openings and halls, allowing living and nature to flow smoothly into one another.
Working with the owners to create a home fit for today’s climate, Matthew Woodward Architecture reinterpreted Burran Avenue to suit a modern family. The resulting structure seeing plentiful light, a considered material palette and ranging views of the ocean – harmonious and holistic.
