Architects: Chamberlain Architecture & Interiors
Area: 544 m²
Year: 2018
Photography: Derek Swalwell
Project Team: Glen Chamberlain, Ella Leoncio, Kathryn McCullough
Interiors: Chamberlain Architecture & Interiors
Pool: Out From The Blue
Builder: TDRM Constructions
Engineer: Perrett Simpson P/L
Landscaping: Neil Jackson
Clients: Tina Arhon, Tass Arhon
Styling: Beck Simon
City: Melbourne
Country: Australia
Light Vault House, a residential building designed by Chamberlain Architects in Australia emphasizes privacy with a concrete exterior and minimal windows, using skylights and courtyards to illuminate its richly textured interior. The project was completed in 2018.
The brief for this project began with the client expressing a desire for “a concrete bunker.” Both client and architect were equally enthusiastic about concrete, establishing mutual trust and connection early in the design process. On an exposed corner site, privacy from the street was a key requirement. The desire for privacy and the client’s love of concrete led to a design with minimal windows, keeping the public facade as uninterrupted as possible.
As a practice focused on volume and daylight, the challenge was to explore these aspects without adding openings to the street facade. Skylights and courtyards were incorporated to draw light into the space. A planted courtyard brings light into the entry and formal dining area. The dining space is enclosed by glazed doors, allowing light to filter through the hallway. A skylight over the double-height entry illuminates the off-form concrete wall, showcasing its subtle color and texture variations. A skylight over the ensuite bath similarly enhances the marble wall lining’s character.
While the exterior is monochromatic and austere, the interior contrasts with rich textures. The warm timber battened ceiling complements the cool tones of the concrete and acoustically softens the space. Oak joinery, heavily figured marbles, sheer drapery, and delicate light fittings provide a softer counterpart to the concrete architecture. The result is a house with a bold, private street presence enclosing a light-filled, richly textured interior.
Project Gallery
Project Location
Address: Brighton, Melbourne, Victoria 3186, Australia
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
