A Layered and Emotive Approach – Elm Tree Place by Eastop Architects
A subdivision originally designed by Nonda Katsalidis, Elm Tree Place is the reimagining of an existing series of spaces through an experimental play on contrasts and materiality. Eastop Architects combines a layered approach, engaging light, transparency, and reflectivity to entrust a richness to the residential experience.
Set behind an existing Victorian-era terrace home in Melbourne’s inner north of Carlton, Elm Tree Place is the reinvigoration of a previously reworked subdivision. Originally designed by Nonda Katsalidis, the new structuresits intentionally separated from the main building, conjuring its own unique identity and clearly defining the two eras. The separation allows a curated approach to form and materiality, while also creating an opportunity to express a revised sense of context through a contemporary lens, instead of competing with the original home. In the reworking of the space, Eastop Architects employs an emotive approach, where layers of light and dark add a richness to the spaces and the subtle use of transparency and reflectivity adds depth and moments of curiosity. The resulting home becomes an expression of light and dark.
Built by CBD Contracting, Elm Tree Place sees landscaping by Eckerleys Garden Architecture, furniture by Castorina and Co and styling by Jess Kneebone. The multi-level home occupies a floor area of 205sqm and its comprising parts are all composed in response to this slightness. Externally, the form is wrapped in Corten steel which has been oiled to prolong the inevitable aging and patina affects, creating a crisp and clearly defined envelope. Exposed brick and black screening also emphasise the sleekness of the form and encase the home in its own protective shell, deliberately void of decoration and ornamentation. Internally, the approach is as controlled, with linear planes intersecting with the same precision, doused with showers of natural light from openings carved into the façade and the roof and ceiling planes.
Connecting the home to natural elements is a core philosophy of the design, with an emphasis on light and landscape. Elm Tree Place is uniquely textural and these elements are emphasised by a controlled sense of restraint. The minimal approach to the comprising palette creates a unified cohesion throughout, where each space effortlessly flows into the next. Glass is used to soften light and create ambient illumination both internally and from external sources. As a feature, opaque glass blocks diffuse light inward and fluted glass elements internally add subtle texture, allowing an interplay with light while also offering a sense of privacy. Changes in floor levels hint at zones being created, mixing up the traditional separation between formal and informal spaces.
Elm Tree Place mixes textures and subtletiesto conjure a home of engaging emotive cues. Eastop Architects has carefully built on what was proposed prior and injected a crisp contemporary relevance, embedded in refined restraint, creating a uniquely restful residence.
