Metal Screens Form a "Skin" Around This Revived ’80s-Built Home in Australia

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Project Details:

Location: Perth, Western Australia, Australia

Architect: State of Kin / @stateofkin

Footprint: 3,509 square feet

Structural Engineer: Forth Engineering

Photographer: Jack Lovel

From the Architects: "The original home was a fitting example of the typical ’70 and ’80s suburban development in the area. The brown brick, terra-cotta tile, and low-hipped roof with cream accents were generous in proportion yet balanced in scale. The home had great potential to transform into a more contemporary, streamlined, and noteworthy presence in the area whilst respecting the existing structure and surrounding neighborhood.

"The existing 1980s brown brick and tile home was retained, revitalized, and reinvented inside and out. The house was enveloped in a perforated steel structure, floating like a second skin around the building to provide shade and privacy as well as a bold expression to the façade. The dynamic color and geometric angled planes of the steel structure appear striking and animated yet surprisingly delicate.

"Internal spaces were opened up, reconfigured, and arranged to create a more congruous and usable format, reenergizing the area with new materiality. Color, pattern, and texture are embraced throughout. Luscious, tonally balanced hues contrast with brighter pops of color to bring vibrant energy into the home. Interior connects with exterior spaces through the existing outdoor areas we refurbished and reimagined to create a more open, airy, and usable alfresco space. We set the tone with cork flooring throughout—a nod to the ’70s era of the original home, but also a super sustainable solution that is gorgeous underfoot.

"This project is truly an exercise of rejuvenation and renewal rather than redevelopment. It is an exciting showcase of the existing home, giving it a new lease on life and a new personality that acknowledges and revels in its history whilst moving lovingly into the future."