Five Amazing Houses in Australia

Here are five houses in Australia that we’ve had our eye on for their striking interior designs, architectural beauty, and unique approach to their client’s needs. The common theme seems to be concrete surfacing, a respect for the environment, and minimalism — without compromising on elegance and luxury, of course.

Pippins - Webster Architecture

Inside and out, Pippins is an outstanding example of elegant simplicity.

The facade answers the client’s wish for uninterrupted ocean views yet still offers protection from prevailing winds — the solution being a single-story structure with intersecting linear walls to shelter the main pavilion. We’re most impressed by the "flying roof", created by two overlapping solid concrete slabs.

Both the brick-clad exterior and the interior material selection are quietly luxurious, achieving the architect’s main goal: creating architectural statements that seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings.

Pippins has been shortlisted in this year’s House Magazine Awards and the Australian Interior Design Awards — as well as being featured in a number of print and video editorials.

MODA Five Penthouse - Mckimm

In Brighton, Mckimm transformed an old service station into a series of luxuriously appointed apartments; and the penthouse is our favourite. An overwhelming sense of warmth is created by the marriage of a neutral monochromatic palette, subtle soft lighting, and raw textured walls. Curves are also a key element — note the many “bullnose” profiles. Calm, sophisticated, and almost otherworldly; this is a space that encourages escapism.

Hawthorn House - Edition Office

The first thing you notice about Hawthorn House is a pair of heavily textured, arched concrete “shrouds” that envelop the building like a sort of protective cloak.

In some areas, these off-form concrete shells create private enclosed spaces — while in others, they expose the landscape to create a sense of openness. Concrete is used extensively throughout the interior, where the textural language is raw and tactile. Timber is the only other dominant material, helping to evoke a sense of sanctuary.

Hawthorn House has won more architecture awards than we can count, most recently House of the Year from Grand Designs Australia in 2.

Skygarden House - Architecture Architecture

Skygarden House is a quirky, colourful oasis hidden inside one of Albert Park’s classic and unassuming brick terraces. Like the name suggests, the key themes of this design are sunlight and plants — both of which get plenty of attention.

Tessellated tiles in fun colours filter the sunlight as it streams into the house through cleverly placed windows. Indoor plants are sprinkled throughout, while the backyard is landscaped to perfection.

Surprise, surprise; concrete is a key material, used to build the rear facade as well as interior floors and walls (which might even be microcement).

Three Garden House - PARABOLICA

For clients who love gardening, Parabolica created a home that immerses the inhabitants in nature, blurring the lines between indoors and out.

The floor plan wraps around a vibrant internal courtyard, while a subdued material palette makes the surrounding greenery all the more of a focal point. Many of the plants, flowers, and fruit trees on the property were actually relocated from the clients’ previous garden which they had been cultivating for over 50 years.

Words like airy, simplistic, peaceful, and subdued spring to mind in regards to the interiors. Both internally and externally, a textured cement wall finish aligns with this project’s elemental focus.

We love designs like this which honour the home owner’s unique interests and needs, while interpreting contemporary design trends.