Located in the inner areas of north and west Melbourne, Australia, the House With A Stair Room by baracco+wright draws its inspiration from the humble stables and shed buildings commonly found at the rear of laneways. With a small footprint of 6x7m, this unique dwelling challenges the conventional notion of a house, adopting a lightweight materiality and a planimetric and spatial quality reminiscent of verandas.
At the heart of the house lies the “stair room,” a designated quadrant that serves as an atrium and a spatial centerpiece. Despite its generous allocation of space, the stair room creates a moment of spatial looseness and release, organizing the plan of the house. Constructed using timber and lightweight translucent cladding, the corner of the stair room allows natural light to filter through during the day, while also showcasing the volume’s presence in the lane at night.
The house’s design incorporates a large sliding front door that opens onto the lane, effectively extending the space of the stair room. This connection is further enhanced by an operable sliding window that links the stair room to the kitchen and living area. Additionally, the kitchen seamlessly connects to a terrace and a small garden, extending the interior in two directions and blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces.
On the first floor of the house, there is one enclosed room and a larger space that adjoins the stair room, separated only by a curtain. This continuation of porous divisions throughout the house allows for spatial flexibility and adaptability, enabling residents to customize their living arrangements according to their needs and preferences.
Baracco+Wright’s design principles shine through in the House With A Stair Room, where the emphasis on circulation quality creates a seamless and intuitive flow throughout the space. The incorporation of veranda-like areas enhances the design, offering sheltered outdoor spots that foster a deep connection with nature.
The thoughtful arrangement of spaces facilitates a sense of spatial release, allowing for moments of openness and freedom that invite exploration. Additionally, the use of lightweight materials not only elevates the aesthetic appeal but also underscores the house’s commitment to sustainability, making it a truly environmentally conscious residence.
Overall, the House With A Stair Room by baracco+wright offers a refreshing take on what a house can be. By drawing inspiration from utilitarian structures and embracing design concepts that prioritize circulation, verandas, spatial release, and lightweight materiality, this small dwelling in Melbourne stands as a testament to innovation and architectural creativity.