Rugged Interpretation – Montfort House by InForm

Celebrating the coastline of Blairgowrie, Montfort House offers a rugged interpretation of residential luxury. Designed and executed by InForm, the home actively embraces its natural context, providing occupants with an authentic experience of residing in place.

Located in the seaside town of Blairgowrie on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, Montfort House rests on top of a steep sand dune adjacent to the National Park. Representing the seventh and final house in an exclusive development project by InForm, the single-storey home embodies the theme of coastal modernity with a rectilinear profile juxtaposing the curves of the native landscape. Alongside the overarching creative concept, the design brief detailed a generous open plan living, kitchen and bedroom space complete with a separate guest wing. Functioning as a viewing platform, Montfort House enables residents to immerse themselves in the natural surrounds from an elevated position. The tranquil experience – encapsulating views to the National Park and further south – forms a sharp and deliberate contrast to that of a town house, enhancing the sense of retreat.

Representing the seventh and final house in an exclusive development project by InForm, the single-storey home embodies the theme of coastal modernity with a rectilinear profile juxtaposing the curves of the native landscape.

Externally, Montfort House is comprised of concrete block wall planes combined with infill panels of black stained timber and glass. The concrete ensures longevity with a natural cement bagged finish that requires zero maintenance and echoes the textural quality of the native tea trees. Indicating the subtle complexity of the built form, the soffit and ceiling also harmonise with the outdoors, revealing timber cladding when viewed from below. In response to the undulating site, the entry sequence to Montfort House is carefully considered. Residents approach the building from a lower level, anticipating their arrival as they enter a forecourt and ascend steps to the front door. The entry itself is defined by two solid retaining walls which mark the boundaries of an impressive double-height space. Journeying into the body of the home, residents are met with a striking vista and extensive glazing to the northern orientation.

The interior design of Montfort House deepens the aesthetic connection between home and site. Continuing the language of the exterior, concrete wall planes run internally, only distinguished by a slight refinement in texture. Plush green carpets pay homage to the colour of organic material and black joinery refers to the external timber cladding. In the kitchen, the tiled splashback reflects the nuanced presentation of the sky as sunlight passes through molecules in the atmosphere. Above, the ceiling plane extends to provide outdoor cover, reinforcing the notion of a blended space.

Functioning as a viewing platform, Montfort House enables residents to immerse themselves in the natural surrounds from an elevated position.

Functioning as a viewing platform, Montfort House enables residents to immerse themselves in the natural surrounds from an elevated position.