Contour House
With a curvaceous architectural form, Contour House is a tranquil, multilayered home that is defined by a rich dialogue between nature and its urban context.
Zen Architects has imbued an organic sensibility in this two-storey abode located in Melbourne’s leafy eastern suburb of Kew. Concrete and warm timber sculpt the landscaped facade, allowing the design to merge seamlessly with the natural contours of the suburban block.
A humble material palette envelops the home and invites nature inward. Australian Krause bricks, concrete and Rockcote natural render effortlessly define the sharply detailed facade, while timber introduces tactility and softness.
Overlooking the tops of gumtrees, with expansive views across lush landscaping, the home embraces its steep slope through intentionally crafted outdoor spaces by Eckersley Garden Architecture. Natural stone steps pave the entrance and meander around the home, which is secluded by abundant greenery and the incline.
Floor-to-ceiling windows and operable glazing enhance the interconnected functionality of the interior, allowing the outdoors to be welcomed in. Tranquillity ponds and verdant, permeable courtyards create a sensory connection within the home. Gardens linked by bridges and balconies, each imbued with natures persona, evoke a sense of adventure throughout.
Concrete makes up the walls and floors of Contour House and mimics the contours of the land – as its namesake suggests. Rich timber grain forms a warm backdrop to the hub of activity: the open-plan kitchen. Its striking ember tones and lofty verticality establish a feeling of permanence beside the island bench encased in concrete. Local spotted gum defines the ceilings, while a two-storey void draws in natural light and the sun’s warmth through the kitchen and adjacent split-level living areas.
An Enzie spiral staircase connects the lower and upper floors of the home. The stairs are crafted from polished spotted gum, echoing the warmth of the kitchen. Bathed in sunlight and sculpted in concrete, the staircase curves with the surrounding walls, joinery and floors.
Camilla Molders created pieces for “interiors that feel deeply connected to the building’s sculptural curves and bold geometry”, she says. “Celebrating its flow and form while layering in warmth, individuality and a touch of eclectic charm.” The custom sofa and rug is an ode to the clients’ personalities, joyfully inspired by their lives. Subtle deep-washed blues and leaf-toned greens accentuate the home’s refined simplicity, adding a playful contrast to the living spaces.
The fixtures and fittings by Faucet Strommen reveal a timeless elegance through the patinated brass. Unique tile selections and applications reinforce the intertwining language of nature that makes itself known throughout the home. Dusty terracotta tiles evoke the warmth of a sunset, complementing the timber finishes within. Slate tiles and dark-hued mosaics with hints of green oxide also speak to revitalisation.
With textural boldness yet restrained ambient colour – accented by foliage and timber surfaces – the home moves to the rhythm of the landscape. Nature’s soft hues are illuminated across playful living spaces, tranquil bathrooms and serene areas of relaxation. Tactile concrete, airy interiors and sprawling gardens unify the home with its environment, gracefully following the contours of life.
Architecture by Zen Architects. Interior design by Zen Architects and Camilla Molders Design. Build by Basis Builders. Landscape design by Eckersley Garden Architecture. Bricks by Krause Bricks. Fixtures and fittings by Faucet Strommen.
