Chunky forms, raw materials and an industrial aesthetic.

Located many miles from Melbourne – the city that inspired its aesthetic – this new build is rather surprisingly located in the far South West of WA, within the relatively quiet Esperance town centre.

The client came to Dalecki Design wanting something that was eye catching and that stood out within the more traditional Esperance streetscape. Designed for a young builder from a rural farming background, raw and robust materiality and a solid indoor/outdoor connection are key in connecting the home to the client’s roots.

Situated on a sloping site, the house follows the natural topography of the land as one moves through it. At the same time, views to the exterior landscape slowly unfurl to reveal the full character of the home. A central hub, the sunken living, dining and kitchen zone feels generously proportioned due to additional ceiling height and ample glazing. Floor to ceiling glazing allows natural light to permeate while forging a connection to the exterior landscape. Strategic placement of this glazing takes advantage of the northern winter sun and cooling summer breezes to create a house that relies on no auxiliary heating or cooling, year-round.

The home’s exterior materials are low maintenance and robust with steel, timber, reclaimed brickwork and concrete used extensively throughout. The front elevation features a single high-pitched gable that is framed by an exposed steel beam making for a bold and weighty element. Vertical timbers below add further visual interest, while providing privacy to the home office behind. Inside, reclaimed brickwork, polished concrete and black joinery underscore the home’s industrial aesthetic, making a further design statement while connecting the interior to exterior.

While this striking home demands attention, it brims with subtle, meaningful features too. From the Esperance beach sand found within the brickwork mortar, to the alfresco screening that is made out of hand foraged native eucalyptus gimlets from the family farm, it’s the personal details that set this home apart.