Denman by Nala Design and Orbis Constructions
Two sensitively designed multi-level homes share a single Glen Iris site, offering a fresh take on multigenerational living, courtesy of Nala Design and Orbis Constructions.
Interior designer Nala Ryan of Nala Design and her builder husband, Joel Ryan of Orbis Constructions, were both the clients and developers of the Denman homes. The pair set out to craft two residences that stood independently of one another while engaging with the natural landscape that envelops them. Set on a tiered block that cascades down to a creek, the large residences unfold across multiple levels, each one connecting with the outdoors. “The goal was to offer moments of stillness, privacy and immersion – a feeling of being in the wilderness while remaining just moments from city life,” says Joel. Both homes are timeless and functional, designed to accommodate the varying needs of multiple generations living across the two dwellings.
Blurring the boundaries between natural and built environments was integral to the design intent. Both residences are orientated to frame the surrounding landscape, with planted gardens lining each of the homes’ levels to draw the outside in.
Materials and an organic colour palette were carefully chosen to ground the structures in the verdant surroundings. Externally, recycled clay bricks and IronOak cladding and battens help the forms blend seamlessly into the landscape. This tactile approach continues indoors, where the ceilings of the double-height voids are lined with Glacial Oak, adding warmth and texture, complemented by woven rugs from Weave Home.
Tactility and raw elegance are further expressed via walls rendered in polished Marmorino, which draws in and reflects natural light across the upper levels and off-form concrete walls in the basement. Smooth lines and soft curves also reduce visual noise. “Every decision was made to feel thoughtful and lasting, creating spaces that feel significant, tranquil and connected to nature,” says Joel.
Though the houses echo one another in materiality and palette, each maintains its own visual identity and ensures privacy for the residents. The facades are slightly angled away from one another, while external battens provide protection from outside eyelines. Inside, distinctive natural stones have been selected for each, and subtle differences in Marmorino finishes enhance the character of each home.
“The homes were designed around passive principles, with careful orientation for solar gain, cross ventilation and lofted ceilings that promote airflow and natural light throughout the day.”
While the dwellings are designed to nurture and protect those within, the same courtesy extends to the environment beyond the walls. Sustainability remained front of mind throughout the project’s development. “The homes were designed around passive principles, with careful orientation for solar gain, cross ventilation and lofted ceilings that promote airflow and natural light throughout the day,” says Joel.
Solar panels are integrated into the rooflines to harness sunlight without distracting from the architecture. Materials were chosen for longevity and minimal environmental impact: IronOak cladding from Australian Sustainable Hardwoods is locally manufactured to minimise transport emissions, while recycled bricks help reduce embodied energy. “Each decision was about building with intention, creating homes that are efficient, enduring and naturally in tune with their environment,” says Joel.
“Designing and building these homes while raising our family gave us the opportunity to really live in the process.”
These Denman homes reflect Joel and Nala’s considered design philosophy and their deep respect for the natural environment. “Designing and building these homes while raising our family gave us the opportunity to really live in the process,” says Joel. “Every decision was made with care, not just for how things looked, but for how they would feel to use and grow old with.”
Architecture by Archtistic Designs Group. Interior design by Nala Design. Build by Orbis Constructions. Landscape design by Acre. Artwork by Ash Holmes and Esthete. Artwork supplied by Studio Gallery.
