A palette of exposed concrete, honed basalt & hand hewn timber
So in love with this beach house in Sorrento! It was designed by Rob Mills Architects and all I can say is wow! I love the use of raw materials and the absolutely stunning aboriginal artworks which give the interiors such a pop! The sumptious but still casual furnishings complete the picture to make this well deserved to be Best of State Residential Design in this years Australian Interior Design Awards.
Architects Statement:
“Taking the design philosophy behind some of Rob Mills’ most luxurious contemporary homes then adding the relaxed air of a beach side retreat, the aim was to create a building that is grand in scale, as sophisticated as any city residence, yet still a peaceful coastal retreat. Treating architecture and interiors as one, the raw structure becomes the finish. A monochromatic palette of exposed concrete, honed basalt and hand hewn timber features inside and out, connecting the vast living area with the adjoining terrace and raised pool to create an entertaining space capable of accommodating the largest of gatherings. Pale ash ceilings and dove grey carpets upstairs maintain the simple, subdued and relaxing palette throughout.
The sense of space that permeates Sorrento is enhanced by unique design elements. Voids in the ceiling open up views from the ground floor to the very top of the house. Individual steps comprising the main staircase seem to float in the air, ensuring lines of sight throughout the ground floor are maintained while lending the room a unique sculptural element. Natural defects in the exposed concrete and timber are left untouched and allowed to express their true character. By retaining these imperfections, Sorrento takes on an informal air in which guests are easily able to relax. This rawness in the materials also enables the building to blend in with its coastal environment in a way more polished structures could not.”
