Ethereal spaces at Erskine River House

The imperatives of survival in a bushfire environment have inspired the design of a stunning new home.

The Erskine River House, built near Lorne and designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects, received a commendation for Residential Architecture (New) in the 2022 Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) Victorian Architecture Awards.

In their submission to the awards, Kerstin Thompson Architects explained the home’s concept was based around the idea of nooks, “pockets of space from the mass of poured concrete”, with separate nooks for lounging, dining, sleeping and bathing.

“To the north, open. To the south a bastion against the elements. A supporting wall to lean against, one that holds you in its folds, shields against the street,” the North Melbourne-based firm wrote.

“Both bunker and verandah. Tightly closed or loosely open. Depending on season, threat of fire. Sliding windows and mesh screens that deal with three constants in rural bushfire zones – embers, flies, light.

“Singular in the use of material – concrete – for walls, floor, hearth and terrace. A blunt exterior, efficient in its repeats of insulated panels and windows belies a curved, dynamic yet calm interior that holds. Equally disciplined in its use of pre-cast using fewest number of formwork variations.”

Erskine River House was built by Spencer Construction for a professional photographer, who said the house was designed as a retreat, a place to escape, slow down and recharge.

“Essential to the experience is the connectedness with the landscape and natural surrounds. The palette is intentionally monochromatic bringing focus to the environment and views beyond.

“The robust curved concrete walls carve rooms, they are protective and calming, the spaces are warm, intimate, and emotive. As a photographer light is important to me, the various skylights capture ever changing shafts of light, shadows and moody moments.

“All these elements collectively create a serene home, a place to appreciate the quietness, the bush, the day.”

The AIA judges noted the house “appeared to embrace the pragmatics offered by a defensive concrete container” rather than “challenging the limitations of designing and building in a bushfire zone”.

“Internally, however, these restraints are relieved, and the architect’s exploration of curved precast concrete provides a foundation for a sophisticated conceptual exploration focused on sensory experience. Window openings and sculpted skylights are highly choreographed – light dances through a sequence of small quiet spaces with an ethereal quality which the jury imagines will bring endless enjoyment to the owner.”

For the full list of winners at the 2022 AIA Victorian Architecture Awards, announced earlier this year, head to architecture.com.au/awards/2022-awards/2022-victorian-architecture-awards-winners