Cera Stribley adds warmth to this Brutalist-inspired Melbourne home

The brainchild of architects Cera Stribley and interiors outfit AV-ID Design, this residence in Melbourne's swanky Toorak is a striking balance of brutalist architecture-inspired design and interiors. The modern home, made in handmade bricks, is topped by a floor clad in patinated copper that offers accent and texture. 

Having to deal with an irregularly shaped plot with a 6m drop to boot, the architects responded by composing an unusual floorplan; one that is created around a grand central foyer, off of which a series of separate wings fan out. This allowed for flexibility in designing different volumes which each respond to different functions and needs, while negotiating the slope, views and light orientation. 

‘We wanted to ensure the house felt grounded, from the earth and also a sense of envelopment,' says architecture practice principle Chris Stribley.

Inside, the home spans three levels. Areas include four bedrooms, a study, two living areas and an open plan kitchen and dining area. A limestone, walnut and concrete material palette create a contemporary but also timeless envelope for life; while a sculptural helix staircase connects all floors. 

‘There was that sense of the brutalist architecture styles found in places such as Brazil, particularly in the 1960s and ‘70s,' says AV-ID director Alice Villella. ‘But here there’s a slightly softer feel.' The project was created in close consultation and collaboration with owner Peter Kerr.

Cera Stribley, who were part of the 2020 Wallpaper* Architects Directory, are experts in creating warm, yet contemporary and architecturally striking homes; often inspired by modernist and brutalist architecture principles. Past work has included Melbourne's Parkside House and the sensitive renovation of an iconic McGlashan Everist beach house in Sorrento. 

Here, their thoughtful approach has paid off with sophisticated forms and interiors matched by a strong connection to the outdoors. Long views of the city as well as the site's garden (landscaped by Phillip Withers) and swimming pool offer a variety of options for the residents to unplug and unwind. A roof terrace sat atop the house's copper ‘crown' ensures an additional outdoors area that is as private as it gets.

INFORMATION
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