Nareeb by Agushi and Studio 11:11 and Simone Haag

Nestled on a corner block in Toorak, Nareeb exemplifies the power of cohesive design. A collaboration between Agushi, Studio 11:11 and Simone Haag, the residence offers a fresh interpretation of luxury living that is both understated and impactful.

Constrained by local height restrictions, Nareeb presents as a predominantly single-level dwelling above an underground basement. In the design process, Agushi thoughtfully considered spatial planning, with living and garden spaces positioned to minimise disturbance from nearby street traffic and the pool located to maximise direct light throughout the day. The architectural approach prioritises sophistication and elegance without compromising contemporary design principles. Large stone panels clad the exterior facade, with delicate horizontal detailing and full-height unbroken glazing striking a balance between brutalist influences and refined aesthetic detailing.

Employing a delicate balance, monolithic stone structures are contrasted with timber joinery, both tied together by subtle natural movement.

Internally, Studio 11:11 and Simone Haag combined to coax movement through softly muted rooms, inspired by Jun’ichirō Tanizaki’s musings on the interplay of light and shadow in Eastern architecture. This philosophy guided the approach to manipulating natural light throughout the home, creating spaces that shift and evolve across the day and seasons. Strategically placed light chambers and skylights enhance the spatial experience, imbuing each room with a sense of depth and intrigue, coupled with a soft warmth.

The interior palette eschews artificial surfaces in favour of materials with inherent character and life. Employing a delicate balance, monolithic stone structures are contrasted with timber joinery, both tied together by subtle natural movement. The small scale and texture of cobbled flooring is counteracted with timber floorboards and the weight of custom stone basins and slabs in wet areas.

The interior palette eschews artificial surfaces in favour of materials with inherent character and life.

Simone Haag further elevates interior spaces, adding layers of personality and comfort to the architectural canvas. These selections, guided by the overall materiality and spatial design, bring a sense of lived-in luxury to the home. Totems by Elvis Sabi ground and centre materiality while referencing the verticality of interior and exterior elements. Furniture selections are soft yet sculptural, shaping spaces and directing movement and moments of pause. The result is a residence that feels both curated and deeply personal, reflecting the clients’ lifestyle and preferences.

Nareeb represents a new chapter in the architectural landscape of Toorak. Through the combined efforts of Agushi, Studio 11:11 and Simone Haag, the residence offers a nuanced interpretation of luxury that prioritises connection to nature, quality of light and layered materiality. Nareeb orchestrates living patterns that come in ebbs and flows, culminating in a home of graceful poise.

Building design and Build by Agushi. Interior design by Studio 11:11. Furniture, art, object and styling by Simone Haag. Landscape architecture by Nathan Burkett Landscape Architecture.