The shortlist for the 2021 Houses Awards was revealed recently proving yet again that Australia is home to a seriously talented design community. With categories ranging from Australian House of the Year to apartments, renovations and houses in heritage contexts there are many incredible projects to be found. But, today we’re going to focus on one trend that the judges identified – the thoughtful and playful use of colour.
Pony by WOWOWA Architecture: Brighton East, VIC
Located in Melbourne’s Brighton East, this renovation’s palette was inspired by the colour and apricot brick detailing that was found in the original 1960’s home. Sporting an avocado inspired tiled bathroom, burgundy and coral bedroom joinery and a pastel peach and yellow kitchen that is one of the most joyful we’ve ever seen, we love!
Highlands House by Other Architects: Southern Highlands, NSW
“This is decidedly not the starkly minimal holiday house. We are happy that our clients possess a (carefully concealed) entertainment system and a comfy couch!” says Other Architects director Grace Mortlock.
A country escape for clients that live in a city apartment, this is not your typical weekender. A sunny shade of yellow adorns the ceiling in the master bedroom while sage green paint makes the exterior pop against the surrounding bushland. Light timber acts acts in unifying relief.
Porous House by Possible Studio: Upper Coopers Creek, NSW
Located in the Byron Bay hinterland, Porous House is a social experiment between multi-generational families working together on the rehabilitation of an adjacent patch of remnant rainforest. The colourful interior draws on motels, cabins and caravans as well as a variety of disparate sources.
“The colours, patterns and objects reflect the diverse passions of the occupants for sci-fi cinema, Memphis Style, AlmodoÌvar films, animeÌ, moireÌ patterns, 80/90’s music, robotics, the Labor movement, collage and quilting,” says Possible Studio’s Sandra Kaji-O’Grady. The bright interior colours stand in stark contrast to the rich green found in the surrounding forest.
Dulwich Hill House by Tribe Studio Architects: Dulwich Hill, NSW
Located in Sydney’s inner-west suburb of Dulwich Hill, this eccentric Californian Bungalow is situated on a double north-facing block. With many alterations having taken place over the years, Tribe Studio Architects decided to work with some of them and remove others.
“Inspired by the whimsy and originality of the existing home, we chose to judiciously remove or retain elements, including a 1950’s frosted glass pirate ship door, flat veneer panels, and electrical fittings. Some tasteful 1980’s work, such as mock-Victorian decorative plaster ceiling mouldings and led-light windows were also retained,” says Tribe Studio principal Hannah Tribe.
A new addition sits behind the original home housing new bedroom and bathroom accommodation under a skillion roof. Playful use of colour can be seen through the joinery in the library and new bathroom in particular.
The winners of the 2021 Houses Awards will be announced 30 July, 2021.
