East End Treehouse | InForm
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East End Treehouse

  • Location: Hawthorn East
  • Completion: 2022
  • Photography: Timothy Kaye
  • Styling: Bek Sheppard
East End Treehouse responds sensitively to the context of the street of Edwardian brick and weatherboard houses that exist in Hawthorn East. The result is a home that is sympathetic to its environment, and carefully considered in scale, material selections and composition.

Landscape is an integral part of the design. At its centre, a large gum provides a focal point from various perspectives and an anchor for subsidiary native plantings to connect with the neighbouring reserve.

Inside, a tranquil setting was curated through a graceful transition between the street and the entrance. A simple timber fence and gate encloses the space, and focuses attention into a lush courtyard, with a pathway leading one inwards.

A considered selection of interior textures and colours continue the connection of the home to its landscape.  The rich, earthy tone of the custom staircase responds to the shades of the reclaimed bricks and the spotted gum, further tying the spaces together.

The project demonstrates the emotive power of simplicity through a restrained palette and simple but powerful form making.  The material palette, partly inspired by midcentury modernism is robust and timeless.  Interior brick walls diffuse the separation between inside and out and create textural interest as light moves around the house.  Timber, including teak ceilings, large oak doors and wall panels add warmth to the interior and contrast beautifully with the concrete floors and white painted reclaimed brickwork.  Refined joinery elements and interior design details featuring marble, timber veneers and mosaic tiles add luxury, texture, and delicacy.

Lifestyle has been carefully considered, including outdoor living and the relationship between interior and exterior spaces.  Adjacent to the main north facing living space, a generous loggia protects an outdoor entertaining area overlooking the lawn and pool.  While at the front of the house a secluded lounge opens to a walled courtyard, offering an alternative more intimate garden experience.