Located in one of Melbourne’s leafy inner suburbs, K Residence channels the quiet elegance of its sculptural exterior into a series of carefully orchestrated interior spaces. Designed by Melbourne-based architect and designer Jack Fugaro, the home’s volumetric language, defined by softened edges, generous curves, and a sense of carved mass, establishes the foundation for its spatial planning. Large, open living zones are balanced with moments of intimacy to ensure the scale never overwhelms. The central double-height stair void anchors this approach: a sweeping sculptural staircase rises through the home, acting as an architectural focal point while subtly delineating living, dining, and lounge areas without physical partitions.
A low-energy, comfort-driven envelope
K Residence employs a performance-led building envelope calibrated for Melbourne’s temperate climate. High-performance wall assemblies with continuous insulation, thermally broken window frames, and low-E double glazing reduce heat transfer and stabilise indoor temperatures year-round. Deep eaves and operable external shading limit solar gain in summer while allowing winter sun to warm interior surfaces. These passive strategies reduce reliance on mechanical systems and support long-term energy efficiency.
Natural ventilation forms another key component of the sustainability strategy. The home is planned along a cross-ventilation axis that uses the staircase void as a vertical air chimney, drawing cool air through the lower floors and exhausting warm air at the upper level. This approach improves indoor air quality and reduces mechanical cooling loads during transitional seasons.
Materials grounded in longevity
Material selection emphasises durability, low embodied carbon, and sensory calm. Internal finishes include natural lime-based render, reclaimed timber flooring, low-VOC paints, and polished concrete in high-traffic zones to provide thermal mass where most effective. Timber elements in the staircase treads, joinery, and screening are sourced from FSC-certified suppliers, reinforcing the project’s commitment to responsible forestry.
Outdoor materials follow the same logic: permeable landscaping, stone with a high regional content, and sustainably sourced decking reduce environmental impact and support natural drainage. Water-efficient native plantings complement the home’s setting within a mature suburban canopy.
Integrated systems for long-term performance
The residence incorporates all-electric systems, including heat pump hydronic heating and cooling, a heat pump hot water unit, and induction cooking. A rooftop photovoltaic array paired with battery storage offsets a substantial portion of operational energy use. Smart home controls optimise lighting, shading, and energy consumption throughout the day.
