When engaged to design a holiday house for two families spanning multiple generations, Tom Robertson Architects took an unorthodox approach. Instead of designing the one large or multi-level space, the practice imagined this home as a pair of near identical pavilions, joined by a central breezeway. The reasons for this floorplan were twofold, as director Tom Robertson explains, ‘Rooms were arranged along the central axis, creating a hierarchy of spaces. In addition, the final floorplan allowed a level of flexibility for each of the families.’
The pavilion forms of the house were influenced by the local farming vernacular, as previously explored singular forms felt ‘too embossing’ says Tom. ‘A more articulated series of pavilions was preferred, sitting comfortably in the landscape.’ The use of timber cladding on the exterior adds to the barn-like aesthetic.
At its core, this is a robust, versatile and low maintenance home, offering a calm retreat from city life, and incredible views across the Phillip Island landscape. It’s a home that’s highly functional, but full of joy.
