It pays to think outside the box. Photo: Max Pritchard Architect Australia is a wide, diverse land and owes a lot of its beauty to the changing nature of its landscapes. Naturally, our homes are beginning to reflect this diversity, as homeowners are becoming more and more inspired to branch out beyond the norm.
From an unexpected extension of a Melbourne Edwardian home, to a distinctive dwelling within Adelaide’s wilderness, take a look at these wonderfully unique homes around Australia.
1. The Cloud House: Fitzroy North, VIC
When viewing the street facade of this wonderful Fitzroy home, you will find a typical Edwardian house on display. However, journey through to the rear of The Cloud House and you will be treated to a rather wonderful and unexpected surprise – a playful cloud-shaped extension where family and friends can eat and have fun surrounded by the remarkable curved form.
Photos: Mcbride Charles Ryan
2. The Edge: Port Douglas, QLD
Designed by architect Charles Wright, this futuristic, space-age home named The Edge is a concrete house that appears as if a spaceship had landed on Flagstaff Hill in Port Douglas. Cantilevered from the hillside, there’s also a 10-metre infinity lap pool that overlooks some of the best views in town, elevating the concept of a coastal home to a whole new level.
Photos: Charles Wright Architects
3. The Invisible House: Blue Mountains, NSW
This secluded home within the Blue Mountains takes full advantage of its elevated setting, whilst providing some amazing views in the process. Constructed of concrete, glass and steel, the exterior is protected by a huge cantilever roof that reflects sunlight off the water that provide an invisible appeal to the home, hence its name, The Invisible House.
Photos: Peter Stutchbury Architecture
4. The Rotating House: Caffreys Flat, NSW
The Rotating House was designed and built by its present owner. It is octagonal in shape with a surrounding circular verandah that turn 360 degrees each way. A touch screen in the dining room controls the rotation, with the purpose of allowing one to take advantage of the seasonal changes, such as following or avoiding the sun, or changing the view from each room as one pleases.
Photos: Rotating House
5. Hollander House: Newport, NSW
This one-of-a-kind 1970s house designed by renowned architect David Hollander is made of cement and has curves in all the right places. Resembling a home fit for the Flintstones family, the Hollander House, located in Newport, takes inspiration from the adobe buildings of Africa and the southwest United States and has been given the nickname “the Pixie House” by locals.
Photos: Modern House
6. Leaf House: Sydney, NSW
Giving a nod to Mother Nature, the Leaf House allows you to be inside and in the garden at the same time. Located in Sydney, the building aims to match the exceptional beauty of its site, featuring curved copper roof shells resembling leaves and a vine-like structural system channelling dynamic growth inside.
Photos: Undercurrent Architects
7. Bridge House: Adelaide, SA
Located one hour’s drive from Adelaide, the Bridge House is a narrow structure that spans over a creek, with views in both directions, giving the feeling of living amongst the trees. Acting as the permanent home and office to its current owners, the structure touches its unique site lightly, with just four concrete pads supporting the delicate steel frame, allowing nature to flow freely around it.
Photos: Max Pritchard Architect