Often it ’ s the very constraints that bring out the best in architectural design . And for this riverside house by home designer Steve Gliosca there were many to consider .
“ First of all , there was the tricky lie of the land – with the 40m-long site dropping by 7m towards the river ,” says Gliosca . “ Second , the owners wanted to be able to live on just one level when they reached retirement . And third , the home had to offer separate living spaces for their two teenage daughters so they could live independently under the same roof .
“ Other homeowner requests were for a passive solar design and the abundant use of stone inside and out .”
In response , Gliosca created a sculptural , two-storey home that presents an understated , closed facade to guests approaching down the long 100m drive – effectively , limiting access to the river views until they enter the residence .
Entry is through a large pivot front door that opens to a double height atrium with a sculptural stair leading down to the lower levels . This large atrium , or void ,
Previous pages : This house is all about providing different functional areas while making the most of views to the beautiful Swan River . Decks on both wings reach out to maximise sun and outlooks .
Facing page : The approach to the house is fairly closed , keeping guests in suspense of the views until they enter the pivot front door . The travertineclad bedroom wing includes a study with a corner window looking out to the arrival court .
Above : Stone exteriors wrap around to form interior walls in the two-storey home ’ s central , double-height circulation atrium .
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