Sculpted Permanence – Park House by Leeton Pointon Architects + Interiors and Allison Pye
Navigating a sloping site, Park House engages with its natural surrounds through a deliberate control of aspect and orientation. With consideration for the landscape and established streetscape, Leeton Pointon Architects + Interiors and Allison Pye craft an enduring and classically proportioned home that reflects contemporary sculpture and openness within.
Unfolding across its three spacious levels, a natural hierarchy emerges within Park House, defining moments of functionality throughout. The sculptural staircases connect each of the internal zones, creating a balanced interplay of movement as well as enhancing visual connections. Whilst the upper floors are home to the more passive areas of the residence, the lower level remains active, opens up to the outdoors and brings people together. As with any family dwelling, ensuring an element of flexibility in the planning and functionality of the residence was key. As such, the architectural approach and interior design seamlessly combine to incorporate an adaptability and fluidity for years to come.
A key part of the experience of the home is having natural light brought inside through the considered placement of skylights and large glazing encircling the form. A plaster finish to the walls sees a softness develop on surfaces as light dances across them, imbuing the walls with a canvas-like quality. A warm and refined linear approach binds the interior together through the use of exposed concrete, black steel and timber. Inspired by the surrounding Edwardian-era homes, the team gave attention to the detailing integrated throughout the dwelling, and edges have been buffered with different textures to offer a semblance of tactility that creates a sense of refuge for the owners.
With an energy-saving initiative, the home is integrated with energy and water capture systems whilst the facade both offers shelter from the weather and cools the interior. Able to expand and contract to allow for guests, the separate living and sleeping areas within enable a sense of separation despite being under the same roof. With views out to the nearby parklands and skyline in the distance, there is a balance of privacy and openness that connects the residence to the surrounding landscape.
Through a harmonious integration of curved and rectilinear gestures, Park House captures an enduring spirit, imagined to last for the current occupants and future generations. The warmth and integration of the natural elements by both Leeton Pointon Architects + Interiors and Allison Pyke ensures every detail has been considered and moments of interaction are celebrated.