Calm Resilience – Wings Way by MRTN Architects
Expressing both a moment in time and a state of permanence, Wings Way creates a nostalgic connection to place through an innate solidity. MRTN Architects responds to the challenging site with an equally resilient form that listens to the landscape and the ebbs and flows of the seasons to become a calm and restful haven.
Located along the Great Ocean Road in Skenes Creek, the owners have a special connection to the site. As the previous structure was damaged due to fire, the new dwelling needed to combine the familiar elements and scale of the original with a more enduring form. Originally a 1970s lightweight fibro home – a familiar sight in many coastal locations of Australia – the replacement is one that considers and is more adapted to the environment. With the landscape in mind, the proposed residence by MRTN Architects is a befitting response to the site that also works to the needs of a multigenerational family.
Accessible from the higher side of the steep site, the winds sweeping across and through the valleys were greatly considered. Ensuring a form that would remain unchanged over many years despite the climate was key. Drawn to the textural minimalism of the unfinished concrete block formation, the client engaged MRTN Architects after seeing previous work. Encasing the outer walls with its own steadfastness, the concrete creates order among the natural landscape. Comprised of a double layered block separated by appropriate insulation, the concrete block forms the outer shell, whilst a polished alternative lines the interior.
Understanding the remoteness as well as the occasional nature of the owners visiting the property, mechanisms were put in place to ensure optimal climate control within its walls. Accessed through a central dividing corridor, an ordered rhythm delineates the home into two wings. As a reminder of the incredible and outstretching views afforded to the residence, the visual connection to the landscape from the entry was an important part of the house’s story. To one side of the residence there is the contained living area, whilst the other side features the more passive retreat areas. Needing to allow for multiple generations to occupy the house at any one time, allowing for a sense of compression and release in the gathering spaces directed the planning.
With the landscape in mind, the proposed residence by MRTN Architects is a befitting response to the site that also works to the needs of a multigenerational family.
Shaped by its slanted roof, Wings Way presents as a solution to living in a considered and resilient way, which is softened by the rich tactile layers that lie within. Crafting a place of ultimate disconnect, MRTN Architects ensures the home’s longevity and low maintenance nature is combined with a sense of warmth to become its own rare destination.
