Nestled in the idyllic surrounds of Mornington Peninsula, Red Hill House is a playful holiday residence that reflects the warmth and character of its rural surrounds.  

Tasked with designing a comfortable weekend home, we drew on the local vernacular of country sheds to create a distinct sense of ease and approachability. The modest frontage belies the home’s expansive rear living areas, where the principal entry is positioned to reveal captivating panoramic views across farmlands and the ocean beyond.

Operable glazing unites the living area with a broad deck, inviting occupants to actively engage with the landscape. The home’s rear expression subtly cantilevers as the hill recesses away, fostering a unique feeling of suspension over the landscape. Internally, a sculptural fireplace creates a striking centrepiece, while the clients’ love of timber is celebrated as a unique focus of the build.

Natural timbers line floors, walls and ceilings to create a warm and immersive sensibility. Plywood panels are detailed with shadow-line junctions to form a continuous grid between wall and ceiling planes, while custom plywood doors are pivot hung, maintaining a uniform finish. An experimental use of plywood is evident in the kitchen, with curved plywood creating a waved articulation to the kitchen island and surrounding plywood cabinetry finished in vibrant blue stain.

The playful use of a singular material lends ingenuity and spirit to the project, while maintaining a relaxed tone. With a focus on lifestyle and contemporary comfort, Red Hill House creates an uplifting sense of escape that belongs to its context.