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At its best, architecture is the dance
of necessity and beauty. It’s the tango
of bold ideas, technique and bold
invention. As the great Jørn Utzon noted –
‘The start of architecture is an act of love.’
But it takes much more than good intentions to overcome
the myriad of constraints and regulations. So much so, it’s
a wonder good or great buildings ever make it off the
drawing board. But they do and Ilana Kister’s Collingwood
House is evidence of huge effort, imagination and love.
Big ideas and bold materials intersect elegantly behind
the high walls of Kister’s house for a family of five.
A dramatic courtyard of concrete and glass reprises
Sir Roy Grounds’ innovative design for his ‘50s South Yarra
Hill St. residence. Kister’s reinterpretation brings muscular
assurance and delicate touch.
A creamy concrete facade peels back to reveal a courtyard
of intrigue. The landscaping is Japanese inspired and
Zen-like with gardens that organically ebb and flow.
Minimal, high-end materials – principally concrete and glass
– contribute to a distilled calm. And, as if to ‘just add water’,
a 17-metre lap pool as part of the water-garden further
contrasts the bluestone sobriety with moderne lifestyle.
PROJECT
Collingwood Residence
ARCHITECT
Ilana Kister
PRINCIPAL GLAZING
Viridian EnergyTech™
Clear Double Glazed Unit
TEXT, IMAGES & FILM
Peter & Jenny Hyatt
CLICK TO HEAR
VIRIDIAN’S CHRIS MURRAY
IN CONVERSATION