Bischoff Residence in Vaucluse, Sydney by Tom Mark Henry & Un-Fold Architecture.

In collaboration with un-fold architecture, Sydney-based studio Tom Mark Henry conceived a two-storey family home in Vaucluse that marries a desire for both traditional and contemporary aesthetics. Material choices and structural statements throughout exemplify an effective unison of form and function.

The house is formed as two separate pavilions with a monochromatic external colour palette of pale rendered concrete and black metal window frames and awnings. An impressive entry sequence features an oversized front door imprinted with a herringbone pattern. This opens to a double-height foyer fronted by rectangular gridded windows, flooding the interior with light.

The foyer serves as the central meeting point of the two pavilions, with an impressive helical staircase rendered with Japanese plaster in a white lustre finish serving as the focal point of the home. The render finish carries through to the hallways on both upper and ground storeys, giving a subtle sheen to the interior. This is enhanced by abundant natural light, ensured via carefully placed glazing encasing the home. Natural light is further prioritized with a series of linear recessed skylights, one of which sits atop the kitchen island, perfectly mirroring its shape.

Parquetry floors are the most prominent gesture of traditional design, alongside the detailed joinery present across both the kitchen and bathrooms. Such elements are decidedly paired with and balanced by restrained finishes that take cues from a more contemporary and minimalist aesthetic, harmonizing the tastes of both clients. Elsewhere, playing with contrast by balancing light and dark creates a sense of drama and intrigue, most notably in the library and master bedroom, where deep blue-grey walls enhance privacy and cosiness.

[Images courtesy of Tom Mark Henry. Photography by Pablo Veiga. Styling by Montana Valich.]