The Next Chapter – Legato by Arent&Pyke and David Boyle Architect

A reconfiguration of an existing structure to respond to evolving circumstances, Legato sees further depth added to its design through a layering and reworking of the planning, allowing for enhanced separation and connections outward. Arent&Pyke and David Boyle Architect maintain a connection to the surrounding context through straddling both the Australian bush and coast typologies.

Having previously designed the home, Arent&Pyke brought forward its familiarity with the house and established relationship with the client into the new works. Legato is the reworking of the previous iteration into a residence fit for an expanded family. Enabling the new addition to feel connected yet separate, a familiar and continued approach to aesthetic was extended into the new, binding the addition to the existing structure through the same curated lens. Working with David Boyle Architect, Arent&Pyke’s focus continues to remain on craft and detailing throughout.

Embedding reminders of the natural surrounds drove an openness internally and inspired the boundless thresholds between inside and out.

Embedding reminders of the natural surrounds drove an openness internally and inspired the boundless thresholds between inside and out. Extending views to the ocean added another element of animation and calms the experience of the home. Continuing the established design language, raked ceilings extend out, accentuating the roof of the form. The ceilings then match the hoop pine timber flooring underfoot, bringing a natural warmth and texture into the interior.

With additional bedrooms integrated into the lower level, a separate living space was also created. Whilst the home is imagined around the notion of coming together, being able to be separate in a more passive capacity was also formative. In an updating of the existing, further layers were added to ingrain a global influence and reflect the evolving palette of the owner. Whilst the final resolve still resembles a familiar Australian coastal style, influences from midcentury style, Scandinavian design and Japanese minimalism are combined with an openness seen in Mediterranean architecture. Allowing movement and access outward, the home feels connected beyond its bounding walls.

Enabling the new addition to feel connected yet separate, a familiar and continued approach to aesthetic was extended into the new, binding the addition to the existing structure through the same curated lens.

Nestling further into the site, Legato expands on the original design intent. Through the revised works by Arent&Pyke and David Boyle Architect, the home becomes more animated from the insertions, reworkings and its added residents.