
Bassano by Tom Robertson Architects
A former pair of cabins in Red Hill, Victoria, has been transformed by Tom Robertson Architects into a luxurious 50-square-metre retreat that combines a private guest suite with an artist's studio.
Named Bassano, the project retains the original shells of the twin cabins while introducing contemporary interventions that create a dialogue between industrial and pastoral aesthetics.
The exterior employs a restrained material palette of pale bagged brick and timber battens, allowing the structure to merge harmoniously with its pastoral setting. In contrast, the interiors present a bold material narrative through the use of robust industrial elements, including an oiled steel kitchen, travertine floor tiles, and a striking concrete bathtub.
The architects have organized the main accommodation cabin into two distinct zones, separated by a central sliding reeded glass wall that mediates between public and private spaces. The social area encompasses a kitchen with industrial-grade steel finishes, a breakfast nook, and an intimate lounge arranged around a fireplace. The private wing houses the main bedroom, robe, and a striking custom concrete bath illuminated by a carefully positioned skylight.
Materials play a crucial role in defining the spatial experience. Travertine floor tiles extend throughout, while traditional ceiling beams reference local agricultural architecture. A double-sided fireplace serves as both a functional element and spatial divider between the living and sleeping areas.
Interior stylist Simone Haag has curated a sophisticated collection that merges vintage Italian and French pieces with contemporary Australian furniture. Notable among these is the Brionvega Radiofonografo, which occupies a central position and contributes to the multisensory experience the architects sought to create.
The project's attention to detail extends to the guest experience, with a bespoke cocktail and welcome hamper provided upon arrival. The bathroom features a monolithic concrete bathtub designed for contemplative soaking, complemented by a serene double shower.
Light plays a crucial role in the project's sensory experience. The architects have orchestrated the interplay of natural light throughout the spaces, using strategic contrasts between light and dark tones to establish a sense of calm. The exposed white rafters provide a subtle rustic element, while raw contemporary materials create a sophisticated brutalist undertone.
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