Calming Refuge – Stone Soul House by Robson Rak

Stone Soul House is founded on a handcrafted approach, where a refinement of details is overlaid throughout the home. Robson Rak brings both an open and private sensibility through directed sightlines and an embedded flexibility that allows the home to both expand and contract as needed.

From approach, the home has a monolithic appearance reinforced further through the extensive use of limestone encasing the home. The solidity of the overall form alludes to a clear separation between inside and out, whilst a breaking down of the overall form over its multiple levels presents a deliberately less imposing view. With an additional level buried below ground level, additional amenity sits neatly confined to its sunken location separate from the above floors. Robson Rak draws from an artisanal approach in comprising elements to elevate the overall resolve.

Robson Rak draws from an artisanal approach in comprising elements to elevate the overall resolve.

Whilst the garage peels away to open the solid face of the home, the main entry sequence is softened by a curved wall that echoes the flowing movement into the centre of the form. The courtyard spaces at the front of the home encourage an interaction with nature before entering, offering a balance between the softer and harder elements that comprise the residence. Opening into the generous and connected living and dining areas, the home feels contrastingly open from within. Whilst its shielded outer face offers a unique identity among its neighbours, the internal open and flowing nature of the home becomes a calming reprise from the outside world.

As a multi-generational home, there is a natural separation for occupants. Following a layered and highly functional brief, the owners wanted to ensure a sense of intimacy remained throughout the home – an atmosphere ensured by the selection of materiality and textures. Throughout the structure, connections outward to the surrounding landscape play an important part in its continued calm and quietening, whilst an integrated pool, spa and basketball court ensure the recreational needs of the family are fulfilled. An overall neutral palette combines with a heightening of refinement throughout, embedding a timeless nature into the home.

An overall neutral palette combines with a heightening of refinement throughout, embedding a timeless nature into the home.

Contrasting its stoic façade, Stone Soul House becomes illuminated from within as it engages with the landscape and natural elements. Robson Rak creates a distinct home that uniquely expresses its owners whilst anchoring the structure in place through a sense of permanence.