Located south of Melbourne, Australia, Peninsula House boasts stunning scenery and a pleasant climate, with endless views of farmland stretching to the horizon. Perched on a high point overlooking the Flinders coastline and Bass Strait, the building responds to the rugged coastline and undulating rural greenery. Rising along a winding driveway, a 10-meter-high rammed earth wall ascends from east to southwest, gradually lifting into the sky like an arm silently guarding the dwelling from behind, providing strong support and gently shielding it from the intense afternoon sun. A recessed notch midway along the wall forms a shadow line, subtly defining the entrance.

From a distance, the structure appears as a sculptural landmark that artistically interacts with the surrounding landscape. Wood Marsh Architecture drew inspiration from the prehistoric Bass Strait coastline, shaping an iconic organic contour. As you explore inward from the villa's entrance, a lush planted atrium breathes life into the building, with large glass windows allowing light to flow freely, creating an interplay of light and shadow within the space. Curving hallways spiral around the triangular central atrium, leading to three distinct functional areas: living, sleeping, and recreation zones. Ascending the dark-hued stairs in front of the living area, one reaches the master bedroom, which boasts expansive views and floor-to-ceiling windows that capture the changing scenery of the countryside and ocean, mirroring the views of the living area below. The bold parabolic ceiling design mimics waves, echoing the rhythm of the coast, as the owner's melodious piano tunes gently resonate.

Adjacent to the double-height living space, the curved terrace under an extended rain canopy not only offers the same scenic views to the five bedrooms but also provides a recreational area for outdoor activities. The poolside area, built according to the natural terrain, overlooks the plains and rivers at the foot of the hills. At the end of another hallway lies a custom-built professional recording studio, fulfilling the owner's passion for music composition. The residence exudes a comfortable and leisurely atmosphere, encouraging people to slow down and appreciate life. The large terrace adjacent to the living area allows residents to enjoy the sounds of laughter and splashing water, experiencing the ever-changing beauty of nature firsthand.

This building celebrates the local ecological landscape like a sculptural artwork. The exterior features a visual contrast of black and white, with rammed earth and charred timber. The black timber battens allow the building to mysteriously blend into the rural environment, while the textures on the walls authentically reflect the effects of weathering. Inside, the dark tones echo the timber details of the exterior, with dramatic interactions of light and shadow dominating the space through winding curves and wall openings. The interplay of brightness and darkness creates a dynamic atmosphere, with the interior continuing the theme of black timber battens, polished black terrazzo flooring, and black mosaic tiles. This deep ink-like color scheme imparts a profound beauty while harmoniously dialoguing with the surrounding landscape.

Design Studio | Wood Marsh Architecture @wood_marsh

Photography | Timothy Kaye @timothykaye