Architects: Matt Williams Architects
Area: 228 m²
Year: 2023
Photographs: Adam Gibson
Manufacturers: Brickworks
Architects: Matt Williams Architects
City: Mount Rumney
Country: Australia
Eyrie House residential building designed by Matt Williams Architects in Mount Rumney, Australia has redefined hillside living through a reversed plan layout and precision masonry detailing. Perched on a steep slope with panoramic views of Pittwater and southeastern Tasmania, the design employs clean, folded geometries and horizontal datums that contrast the rugged landscape. The plan inverts the typical hill-house structure, placing the garage above and living spaces below, prompting a unique spatial sequence from the elevated entrance. GB Masonry blocks were selected for their dimensional accuracy, enabling Saxby Bricklaying to achieve highly precise vertical and horizontal alignments. Matte Porcelain-finished blocks were mitered to form pleated facades and acute angles, defining both the monolithic entry porch and the calm interior surfaces that frame the surrounding views.
Eyrie House is a new residence located on a steep incline at the top of Mount Rumney, offering expansive views across Pittwater and southeastern Tasmania. The design responds to the dramatic terrain by introducing a series of clean, folded geometries and horizontal datums that visually contrast the natural ruggedness of the site.
To accommodate the steep gradient and restricted access, the typical hill-house arrangement was inverted. The garage was placed at the uppermost level, with the main residential spaces situated below, leading to the challenge and opportunity of designing an entry sequence from the top down.
GB Masonry block was selected for its dimensional consistency, which enabled Saxby Bricklaying to execute precise vertical and horizontal patterns with millimeter-level accuracy. The blocks were finished in a Smooth Porcelain tone, offering a matte, uniform surface that balances crisp definition with softness in visual texture. This material choice and execution demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship, reflecting the bricklayer’s intent to expand both technical and aesthetic limits.
Blockwork was meticulously mitered to form the sharply folded surfaces and acute angles of the entry porch, continued into the void ceiling to complete the monolithic composition, and stacked with precision throughout the residence. While the masonry elements create a bold impression at the entrance, they serve as a quiet, stable backdrop within the home, directing focus toward the landscape beyond.
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Project Location
Address: Mount Rumney, Tasmania 7170, Australia
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
The Eyrie House by Matt Williams Architects is a stunning example of how modern design can harmonize with rugged natural landscapes. The use of raw materials like concrete and timber creates a striking yet organic aesthetic, while the expansive glazing blurs the line between indoors and out. I especially appreciate how the design prioritizes sustainability without compromising on visual impact. The way the structure seems to ‘hover’ over the terrain is nothing short of breathtaking. Would love to see more projects that embrace this bold, context-sensitive approach!