Modern Eco – Kilior’ra by Group Architects and Jase Sullivan

Centred on living sustainably, Kilior’ra was imagined as an idyllic home with an environmental conscience. Group Architects and Jase Sullivan combine to propose a home that feels elevated and luxurious yet reduces energy use and responds to the surrounding natural elements as much as possible.

There is a misconception that all ecologically designed spaces compromise on aesthetics. From the outset, the owners wanted to bring together a team that shared their vision and understood how they wanted to live and what they valued. “The owners asked for a forever home with 100 per cent sustainability,” says Julian Brenchley, principal of Group Architects, “and it was important that they could also [pass] down the keys to their children when the time came.” “We wanted open-plan living to make the most of the northerly aspect and the views,” adds the owner, “with multiple living areas for our large family and a big central kitchen as the heart of the house.”

“The owners asked for a forever home with 100 per cent sustainability,” says Julian Brenchley, principal of Group Architects, “and it was important that they could also [pass] down the keys to their children when the time came.”

Having originally purchased the land that Kilior’ra is situated on back in 2019, the owners called for an equally impressive response to the generous allotment and natural setting. Replacing the 1960s double-brick structure, the three-level home ensures each outlook aligns with the core functions of the dwelling and supports passive living that is less reliant on outside energy sources. “Aesthetically, we gave Julian free rein,” adds the owner, “and he came up with a 70s Hollywood aesthetic, which we love.” Accentuating that initial brief sees Jase Sullivan bring his own layering to the interiors, curating new and storied pieces to create a unique abode.

Within the six-bedroom family home, dedicated wings allow for a sense of separation between the adult and children’s spaces, and ample living zones encourage connection. Throughout, outward connections to the landscape allow the home to breathe and constantly feel animated. “With the main living area being the size of a convention centre, and stone and glass walls, my challenge was to create cosy and warm spaces,” says Jase, adding that it is a similar affinity to the mid-century period and principles that he finds true joy; “I warm to this era because it was both unostentatious and fun.” Avoiding an overly crisp approach, warmth and texture exemplify the owners’ characters.

“Aesthetically, we gave Julian free rein,” adds the owner, “and he came up with a 70s Hollywood aesthetic, which we love.”

With both curved elements and openness that is befitting of its scale, Kilior’ra integrates key mechanisms that allow the home to optimise sustainable practices. Together with their entrusting clients, Group Architects and Jase Sullivan embed the contemporary residence within the landscape to encourage outdoor living.