Openly Grounded – Casa Figueria by Luigi Rosselli Architects, buck&simple and Alwill Interiors

Words by Bronwyn Marshall
Photography by Prue Ruscoe
Interior Design by Alwill Interiors
Architecture by Buck and Simple
Landscape Design by Dangar Barin Smith

Inspired by nature’s elements, Casa Figueria is the result of a careful layering of textures and tones across the site. Luigi Rosselli Architects, buck&simple and Alwill Interiors each bring distinct specialties to craft a considered form, optimising location and outward views and encouraging a seamless flow between inside and out.

Enviably overlooking the water, Casa Figueria is positioned at the end of a secluded street and is lifted up over a natural ridge. Like many other homes in Rose Bay, a connection to the water grounds the site, and the animation of moving vessels and the humming of people throughout the day bring life from every direction. Acting as an anchor among the lively surrounds, the residence has multiple levels that allow for a combination of passive and active spaces on site. Whilst the views remain a focus throughout, open living is an integral part of Sydney life, and the resulting home captures that spirit.

Acting as an anchor among the lively surrounds, the residence has multiple levels that allow for a combination of passive and active spaces on site.

Luigi Rosselli Architects, buck&simple and Alwill Interiors create a series of layers that engage with the site’s natural elements whilst also adding a depth of texture to the everyday tactile interactions within. Accessed from a quiet street, with views on the opposite side, the weighted nature of the elements used are inspired by linear characteristics of modernism and brutalism, focusing on bold sculptural functionality that opens with generosity. As part of the home’s openness, the solid elements create a balance and represent the immersive nature of the residence.

Drawing from a warm palette, tones from the landscape are brought inward, with the elements of earth and air acting as guiding forces. From the initial interaction with the oversized bronze front door, a textural dexterity slowly unravels as one moves throughout. With each hallway and open space leading to framed views of private garden spaces or the waterfront, the dwelling is deeply connected to place. By combining contrasting features and finishes, each is highlighted and allows the owners to make their mark on the home.

As part of the home’s openness, the solid elements create a balance and represent the immersive nature of the residence.

Whilst the architecture of Casa Figueria combines masonry and glass as its main comprising elements, the interior is brought together through a series of both saturated and muted moments. Weaving a vibrancy into the spaces, Luigi Rosselli Architects, buck&simple and Alwill Interiors capture a combined richness and refinement that reflects the owner’s personal expression.