VISION 40 — OPEN HOUSE
Residential design is architecture
at its most intimate. At its best
it should mirror the aspirations
and personalities of its client,
delivering a glove-like fit.
Free of the corporate, commercial
and institutional demands,
it’s the opportunity for architects
to tango with one or two clients,
rather than a whole committee.
PROJECT
The Makris House, Ivanhoe, Victoria
ARCHITECT
KUD Architects
PRINCIPAL GLAZING
Viridian Reflective Coated Glass
Viridian Clear Double Glazed Unit
TEXT, IMAGES & FILM
Peter & Jenny Hyatt
A
ll simple enough on paper but challenging in practise.
Almost DIY really, but real expertise is required for
the virtuoso performance. The Melbourne architecture
practice KUD shows how it can be done with its Ivanhoe
house. Understatement and architecture aren’t always
synonymous, but KUD combine restraint and invention
in this quiet suburban street where change has
occurred slowly.
Although ‘quiet’ in its Federation-era streetscape,
there is no doubting this is a house of its time. A simple,
unified ‘façade’ and low, wide elevation is subdued in
form despite standout, light reflecting tones and finishes.
Unlike many of its tuck-pointed neighbours, cream glazed
brick and feature glazing are crisply of the moment.
The feature ‘reflection’ window of the street-facing living
room overlooks a granite garden sculpture, trees and sky.
The bonus is an interior of complete day-time privacy
and virtuoso example of Viridian’s reflective coated glass
which highlights its setting. Behind its façade, the house
reveals openness and delight with swimming pool as
immersive to the eye as body.