bkk architects designs split level house on offset topography

set within the context of a developing suburban neighborhood at the base of mt martha public park and overlooking port philip bay, australian practice bkk architects has completed the split house along the coast south of melbourne. the site’s centrally-located slope divided the property almost evenly into elevations, which became the impetus behind the primary organization of the home. rather than cutting into the topography, the design instead places two rather simple volumes on each plateau connected by a staircase that cuts through the resultant interstitial space.

the wood-clad volumes open onto the external yard
image © peter bennetts (also first image)

along the higher portion of the site, the social living areas and master suite enjoy more distant views of the bay, with additional bedrooms located in the more private area below. the horizontal and vertical separation and connecting space created many opportunities to play with sight lines, which bkk architects took advantage of as a means to control views and privacy. carefully curated windows are positioned to connect various parts of the house while blocking views from the exterior, all the while providing adequate levels of natural illumination. upon entering the home, an open foyer at the base of the stairs provides for a gathering area, set somewhat as a stage that utilizes the stairs and steps as seating. the metal-clad stairway structure projects out towards the sky opening into a large skylight that forms a light-filled auditorium space.

the void between offset structures forms a semi-private outdoor area providing light to the most interior spaces
image © peter bennetts

the upper and lower levels each feature a glass wall with a tapered wood facade that creates a lens spilling out onto the yard. every space in the home is designed to balance with the exterior- through windows, operable walls, and doors there is always a connection to the surrounding landscape. on the exterior, ship-lap timber planks wrap every facade helping the home blend into the green context. a screen wall continues this language across the gap between volumes, using the angles laminated veneer beams as a support to provide partial privacy to the internal-facing windows.

image © peter bennetts

landscaping is present all around the home, connecting interior to exterior
image © peter bennetts

the central voids ensures natural light reaches every room
image © peter bennetts

image © peter bennetts

the nearby bay is situated opposite mt martha, each viewed from various parts of the home
image © peter bennetts

the central stairs double as a gathering space and stage for family and friends
image © peter bennetts

the elevatd roof provides acoustic depth
image © peter bennetts

a clerestory floods the interior with natural light
image © peter bennetts

project info:

project name: split house
architecture firm: bkk architects
lead architects: simon knott, george huon
project location: mt martha, vic
completion year: 2015
gross built area: 320 m2
photographer: peter bennetts
builder: overend constructions
structural & civil eng: kersulting engineers
services eng: brt engineers
landscaping: mud office
building surveyor: groupii
quantity surveyor: planning and economics

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bkk architects designs split level house on offset topography

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