Immersive Illumination – North Bondi House by Studio Arkive
An enlivened semi-detached home, North Bondi House is brought into a contemporary relevance through an outward connection and the incorporation of a natural awareness. Studio Arkive combines a subtle tactility with an internal illumination that ensures the young and energetic family feels immersed in place.
Located in North Bondi, an eastern suburb of Sydney, North Bondi House is reworked to enhance its connection to nature and establish a sense of place inside. Originally contained to a single level, the residence has been expanded vertically whilst maintaining existing proportions so as not to disrupt the rhythm of the streetscape. The dwelling has been opened up to allow for ease of movement within and lightened with newly inserted finishes and joinery to enhance the interior volume. Studio Arkive thoughtfully breathes new life into the home by anchoring it to the surrounding lush landscape and introducing ebbing and flowing elements inspired by nature.
A contemporary, coastal residence, North Bondi House combines a casual lightness with a sense of openness between spaces and across thresholds. Paying homage to the natural surrounds, Studio Arkive uses unfilled travertine flooring reminiscent of nearby cliff forms, imbuing the home with warmth and texture. Throughout, there are ample opportunities for gathering and socialising within newly defined living spaces, which funnel out into the rear courtyard where a private oasis awaits.
From textured brickwork to finely rendered walls, the use of natural materials and subtle finishes allows incoming light to activate interior spaces. A light palette, warm timber flooring and natural stone form the base of the home, allowing newly introduced pieces to remain the highlight. The open nature of the revitalised residence also ensures a better engagement with the landscape and invites the outside in, offering a sense of balance and retreat once inside.
Rich in natural light, subtle material texture and enlivened by a lush landscape, North Bondi House encompasses a natural awareness that ushers it into a contemporary context. Studio Arkive seamlessly establishes outward connections and combines natural materials and textures to ensure the home provides a lasting, immersive experience for the young family.
