Modern Farmhouse Luxury – Wallaroo Residence by DNA Architects

Words by Sara Jacob
Architecture by DNA Architects
Photography by Pablo Veiga
Appliances by Fisher & Paykel

In touch with a vast rural landscape, Wallaroo Residence rises from atop one of Canberra’s many slopes. Crafted by DNA Architects, the family home gently weaves natural elements into its modern expression, emerging as a place of retreat.

Settled on the outermost part of Canberra, Wallaroo Residence follows a design brief readily assigned to DNA Architects. Naturally, the brief spoke of the rugged surrounds, specifying the environment should be reflected in a scheme catered to family life, wherein guests are often entertained. The luxury home presents as a modern farmhouse, a concept first proposed by its traditional pitched roof and then explored within an interior of considered materials maturely applied.

In order to accommodate the dynamic nature of family life, DNA Architects utilises appliances from Fisher & Paykel.

Aggrandising the entrance of Wallaroo Residence, a floating porte-cochère leads on to an impressive set of glass doors. Internally, a timber-clad kitchen sits to the east of the arrival space, beyond which lies the family living room. From there, the residence separates into the laundry room and master suite which offers unobstructed southern views. While the home operates as a cohesive whole, there is a clear distinction made between entertainment spaces and family zones, with the spacious kitchen settled between the two.

In order to accommodate the dynamic nature of family life, DNA Architects utilises appliances from Fisher & Paykel. Along the back wall of the kitchen, Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer are effortlessly integrated into both the wall and the adorning joinery. The resulting amenity is cleverly masked by the sophisticated continuation of timber. On the kitchen island, a Full Surface Fisher & Paykel Induction Hob nods towards a sustainable lifestyle and enables multiple pans to be warmed at once. In the laundry room, large capacity Fisher & Paykel Washer Dryers inject a sense of efficiency into domestic processes.

The luxury home presents as a modern farmhouse, a concept first proposed by its traditional pitched roof and then explored within an interior of considered materials maturely applied.

Recognising the opportunities and challenges attached to a rural site, DNA Architects crafts an innovative outcome. Given the southern orientation of the home, the residence is punctuated with shallow floor plates which allow natural light to enter from all directions. Glazing is applied in large panes which shoulder one another, fostering the experience of a direct natural connection. The addition of courtyards tucked into the spatial plan establishes outdoor entertainment areas that are protected from the wind. To the front of the home, thick walls of Murrumbateman blue stone echo the raw tactility of the landscape.

Embracing its unique perspective, Wallaroo Residence testifies to the ongoing appeal of a city escape. With inhered functionality and a modern aesthetic, the home represents a distinguished interpretation of farmhouse luxury.