Set in the exclusive heart of Caulfield’s Golden Mile, the Howitt #project344 is an expansive home on over 1200 square metres designed to cater to the needs of a young family of five. On a large west-facing site of flat topography, a tennis court was a key requirement for the clients and the house was designed with entertaining and transterior flow in mind.
Upon demolition of the existing dwelling and further excavation at the Howitt project, a bomb shelter was discovered seven metres below the ground. Making way for a basement containing a cinema, gym and steam room, the discovery provided a challenging dimension to the project while adding a significant layer of history to the site.
Continuing the theme with all mckimm homes, the temerity of employing contrasting materials to achieve a certain desired aesthetic is carried through with the Howitt and compliments the clean symmetry and carefully considered design of the project. The architectural layering of the facade combines robust materials such as concrete, zinc and brick and is carried out with precision, creativity and finesse.
When entering the Howitt property, you are met on the left with a landscaped courtyard void that falls to the basement, drawing your line of sight to the level below. Facilitating a visual connection to the outdoors and the two levels above, the courtyard offers a gateway for natural light and an external retreat from the seperate basement zones.
Central to the design of the home, a geometric spiralled staircase climbs between the three levels of the Howitt and creates a bond between the basement and upstairs quarters, while offering a clean juxtaposition to the symmetrical lines of the project. From the ceiling, a circular skylight almost two metres in diameter hovers delicately above the stairwell allowing an internal light cavity at the centre of the house and offering a harmonious connection between the basement, ground floor and upstairs living spaces.
The pool, tennis court and alfresco areas are all zoned to the rear of the home and full glass fenestration allows views from the main living areas and the upstairs master suite to the perimeter of the property and beyond. Cantilevers and sliding glass walls allow for clean breezeways and ventilation throughout the home and evoke a relaxed and liveable feel to the Howitt.
Offering a unique and welcoming ambience, the Howitt provides seamless amalgamation of spaces and a home that evokes comfort and warmth. The clever articulation of spaces synchronises with the internal use of bricks, cedar and concrete and works in tandem with the neutral palette favoured by the clients. Combining functionality with contemporary architecture allows the young family to enjoy shared living zones with clarity and connection, while cultivating a
home-life suitable to their personal needs.
