Highgate Hill Residence

To the North and East, the living level embraces the landscape as the upper level hovers over the ground plane as a protective canopy. In these areas, where the building is more intimate, the materials and detailing are deliberately fine and diminutive. To integrate the landscape with the living spaces on the middle level, the external openings are of a significant scale so that the internal floor plate opens up completely to the outdoor spaces which consist of a series of floating platforms of constructed ground planes of timber decking or turf.

The kitchen sits directly next to this opening, taking full advantage of the appropriated outdoor space. The kitchen is made from American Oak veneer which provides a durable finish for a busy space. The simple lines and planning shift the focus to the outdoor spaces, while maximizing functionality. The double height space adjacent to the kitchen, used for living and dining compliments the monumental scale of the south / west identity of the residence. The ceiling is finished in painted battens, allowing filtered light through to the interior. This recalls the veil-like timber screens of the façade and reinforces the idea of layers laid over and within a building volume.