Introspective Modern – Yuille House by mckimm

Words by Bronwyn Marshall
Architecture by mckimm
Photography by Timothy Kaye
Build by mckimm
Interior Design by mckimm
Styling by Simone Haag
Styling by Karin Bochnik

With a focus on outdoor living, Yuille House comes together as a formal proposition that balances open and closed gestures. mckimm ensures access to the natural elements is prioritised throughout the home and enhances a sense of place across the site.

Responding to its near-coastal location in Brighton, to the south of Melbourne, Yuille House interacts with the site carefully whilst also feeling grounded due to the weighted masonry used throughout. The generosity of the site is balanced by the insertion of an equally generous form that allows clear access between inside and out, with connections to the landscape being a core driving element of the brief. mckimm created a U-shaped form that hugs a protected courtyard space, and integrates water, light and air to enrich the everyday experience.

The generosity of the site is balanced by the insertion of an equally generous form that allows clear access between inside and out, with connections to the landscape being a core driving element of the brief.

Referencing the coastal surrounds, a saltwater pool is tucked into the rear yard and is the central element around which most of the daily activities pivot. Together with the rippled reflections cast from the water onto the built form, the nearby tennis court and various outdoor living and dining spaces often pull the owners outside. Optimising the home’s northern orientation, the main living spaces are placed to become naturally illuminated and activated.

The combination of a muted palette and a sense of restraint towards the detailing and junctions creates a home of lasting retreat. Enabling and encouraging togetherness and connection, the openness with which the form sits on the site also allows for more intimate moments of disconnection when needed. The selection and curation of midcentury-inspired furniture, lighting and objects reflects a discerning taste and attention to high-quality elements.

The combination of a muted palette and a sense of restraint towards the detailing and junctions creates a home of lasting retreat.

Yuille House strikes a comfortable balance between retreat and reveal, orienting moments of privacy to the rear and the carved-out courtyard space. Encouraging an embrace of nature, mckimm proposes a lasting retreat of inviting calm.