Chisholm House, Avalon

Several design iterations were considered before concluding that the original home was well positioned. “Living on the site for seven years meant we understood the way the light moved across the site and breezes changed throughout the day and seasons,” says Richard. “The design provides multiple opportunities to engage with the surroundings … The opportunities, and challenges, the steep site gave us have resulted in a far more interesting design than if we had started with a level block.”

Bricks were selected to clad the exterior’s lower levels, complementing the timber, concrete, brass, and weathered zinc used throughout the home, as well as evoking a sense of grounding between the home and the landscape.

“A gentle approach was taken with the interiors, making the most of a refined selection of materials,” says Bianca. Family-friendly pieces of furniture and furnishings were prioritized for their ability to converse with the surrounding bush in a palette of muted greens, pinks, and earthy tones, “creating a sense of calm that allows the house to be part of its unique location, not a distraction from it.”

As not only homeowners but also architect, builder, and interior designer, Chisholm House presented an intimate project for the couple. “We really embraced this unique opportunity to get involved in every aspect of the build,” says Bianca, “one of my favourite features is the copper-pipe detailing Richard designed for all the shelving and the floating desk. It’s such a lovely warm material and ties in with the exposed copper pipes we have in the washrooms.”