House Tour: This Leedon Park home combines stark industrial concrete with sleek modern furnishing by Ipli Architects
By Young Lim -
Casual observers might think this living room looks unfinished, but according to its architect Yip Yuen Hong from Ipli Architects, this is exactly what the homeowner desired. As a concrete supplier, the homeowner wanted to show off the one material of his trade and the key to his success in the business.
An extension to the homeowner’s existing house, this new concrete bungalow addition overlooks the manicured lawns, swimming pool and tennis courts on the property.
The profile of this concrete bungalow is formed from thin concrete slabs reinforced with timber formwork. Look closely and you can see the details of the wood adding a raw yet alluring texture to the grey concrete.
A variety of square and rectabgular holes were made in the pitched roof, allowing daylight to stream into the living room underneath. The design team included a layer of tint film to the glass panels covering those holes so the lighting is regulated and the interiors do not overheat during the day.
While most people tend to view concrete as a cold and rigid material, a mixture of wood decking and black concrete flooring help to add a sense of cosiness and warmth to the spaces here.
The high ceiling and open layout made it perfect for the inclusion of a long kitchen island, equipped with the latest cooking appliances.
In order to make the spaces feel more intimate, the homeowner also included plenty of artwork and greenery to the walls. An oversized fan was also installed to ensure ample air circulation and ventilation. Because of this, the bungalow never feels stuffy or hot even when temperatures soar.
The clean forms and straight lines of the furniture in the bungalow accent the block-like concrete building and add an uncluttered look to the rooms.
Innovative use of blocks on the walls provide space for plants to grow as well as becoming a visually engaging space.
Over time, creeper plants grow upwards across the walls of the home’s façade, achieving a balance between the rugged industrial look and mother nature.
Even those who abhor the cold look of concrete and steel will be drawn to this abode owing to its edgy Mid-century modern décor.
Photos Jeremy San