The Canterbury Road Residence by b.e.architecture

The vibrant, young and multi-cultural b.e.architecture, led by Broderick Ely, Jonathan Boucher and Andrew Piva, is a design firm that engages in thoughtful design having a connection with its surroundings, with an emphasis on the materiality of the structures. The Canterbury Road residence, made up of three modest structures, resembles a naturally occurring trilithon found in rock formations. The structures are arrayed in rough lavastone assembled to form an introspective passageway.

Distinction between the forms has been made apparent as though they are three large boulders resting on each other. The hand laid stone walls inspire an organic character that draws one from the street into the heart of the house; the upper floor takes the shape of a lintel over the entryway.

A strong aura is crafted by the tonal alteration in the natural stone across the scale of the building. On the other hand, the lavastone used on the structure, derived from a similar volcanic process as the bluestone used in Melbourne’s streets, sits easy in the context. The fine flush glazing details and mirrored glass reveals the surroundings to the accentuated robustness of the stone counterpart.

Situated along a busy street, the envelope of the structure possesses an extroverted quality. However, the interior spaces are exclusive and inward looking. The mirrored glass maintains the privacy of the residents from their neighbours, thus avoiding the use of shutters. The stonework is hinted at throughout the house and intimate courtyards are spread all over.

A fish pond at the entrance and a planted terrace next to the master ensuite enhances the essence of the house. Enriching the textural experience, the interior décor boasts of render, travertine and dark timber that are underlined by the natural lighting from the courtyards and skylights.