Sculpting Simplicity– Villa Carlo by Daniel Boddam Studio

Conceived through a considered and holistic lens, Villa Carlo is a modern and refined interpretation of the traditional Californian bungalow. Daniel Boddam Studio draws on a linear simplicity and elevates through detailing and heightened materiality, sculpting an enduring home as a result.

Semi-detached, Villa Carlo aims to connect to its adjoining neighbour and a thoughtful consideration of context, by inserting itself as a European-influenced home that focuses on detail. Similar to stylings and principles underlying the Californian bungalow style, there is a sense of arrival, and the formal connectedness internally ensures the home sits comfortably in its Mosman locale. Home to a growing and inspired art collection, the home acts as an extension of a shared passion for the artisanal and the crafted, becoming not only a gallery but a home of sculpted proportions for its owners and visitors to feel aptly comfortable within and comforted by. Daniel Boddam Studio utilises a holistic veil to view every element through the same agreed vernacular, bringing the home together with intended purpose and rigour.

Built by 3 Corp, Villa Carlo takes its name from the revered work of Italian master Carlo Scarpa and aims to incorporate the essence of this work, reinterpreted through a contemporary and uniquely Australian approach.

Built by 3 Corp, Villa Carlo takes its name from the revered Italian master Carlo Scarpa and aims to incorporate the essence of this work, reinterpreted through a contemporary and uniquely Australian approach. A focus on honest and authentic materiality binds the work of Scarpa and Villa Carlo, where elemental forms and an emphasis on the horizontal define spaces and the resulting linear language used throughout. Grey sandstone is used to carve out podium elements, while rendered brick and off-form concrete support structurally. Stepping geometries and an emphasis on the sculptural from a greater form become a repeated feature, allowing elements such as the charred Cambria ash timber to offer relief.

While the home is positioned for its two residents, the adaptability of function and accommodation allows for visitors and family to stay. The home is divided into two distinct wings, accessed on either side of the dramatic gestures of the entry. Behind the weighted full-size timber door, opened by way of the custom brass handle, the home unveils itself in a structured and proportionately balanced way. All communal and living areas are aligned with the view of the harbour, and integrated landscape elements break up the form and allow natural elements to permeate the home, lightening the materiality and mass.

Home to a growing and inspired art collection, the home acts as an extension of a shared passion for the artisanal and the crafted, becoming not only a gallery but a home of sculpted proportions for its owners and visitors to feel aptly comfortable within and comforted by.

Optimising its views and acting as a reminder of its envious siting, Villa Carlo opens to its surrounds while also protectively encasing its owners and their collections. Daniel Boddam Studio brings a considered incorporation of light and volume in proposing this long-standing residence.