Structured Formality – Toorak Garden Residence by Paul Conrad Architects

Imagined from its central axis, Toorak Garden Residence combines the formality and scale of its neighbours together with a European sensibility. Paul Conrad Architects overlays a measured response to the generous site through considered framing of the natural surrounds and an emphasised grandeur and refinement internally.

As a neat insertion into one of Melbourne’s inner southern suburbs, Toorak Garden Residence is an offering of stateliness and presence equivalent to the surrounding homes. Dotted in amongst both historic and more contemporary residences, the multiple level home comes together as a statement of controlled rigour and craftsmanship. The framed openings that comprise the overall form offer a rhythmic sensibility to the encasing façade and create a natural separation internally as the openings relate to the internal plan. The considered and balanced nature of the overall forms across the site act as a combined response to the contrasting older and newer homes in the area, anchoring itself as a lasting contender. From here, Paul Conrad Architects carries a similar restrained approach internally and throughout the sprawling landscape setting.

Framed views internally and out into the garden play an important part in setting the scene and reinforcing a sense of disconnect from the street.

Comprised of heavy masonry elements, the overall form is broken up with large panes of gridded glass, acting as the eyes that connect between inside and out. The equally generous landscaped areas and gardens that the home sits amongst are inspired by an internal openness that allows free-flowing movement between areas, while maintaining visual access. By blanketing a controlled symmetry to the overall form, the home then references the original classical style and breaks up the whole. While the home is new on the site, its reference to neighbouring scale and proportion ensures it is continuing that existing legacy, while offering itself as a new addition to the architectural narrative of the area.

The lightened palette increases the perception of scale and enhances natural light; it also ensures the home feels equally calm and energising for its owners. Despite its formality, smaller, more intimate moments are created in the plan that allow for retreat and passivity while the open areas encourage coming together. Light colours comprise the overall palette, with textural timber adding movement and a connection to the surrounding natural features of the home. Framed views internally and out into the garden play an important part in setting the scene and reinforcing a sense of disconnect from the street. The alignment of the planning from a central axis acts as a backbone of sorts, methodically connecting the home and its occupants.

By blanketing a controlled symmetry to the overall form, the home then references the original classical style and breaks up the whole.

Feeling both appropriate to its area while exemplifying a European sensibility, Toorak Garden Residence echoes a longevity and permanence. Paul Conrad Architects employs contrast as a key feature in proposing such a balanced and plentiful family home.