Onda by State of Kin
Set on a compact rear laneway corner block in the heart of the city, Choux by State of Kin is a refined response to the challenges of small-scale living. Conceived for a young family of four, the three-bedroom, three-bathroom home embraces its tight 60-square-metre footprint with a vertical arrangement that privileges light, openness, and connection.
The sculptural façade defines the dwelling from the outset. Three distinct brickwork patterns—stack bond, soldier course, and standard brick bond—are combined with a textured tyrolean finish, a composition that celebrates craftsmanship while giving the home a distinctive street presence. A curved upper-level window, angled to the north, captures daylight and extends views beyond the narrow laneway, softening the built form while enhancing permeability.
Inside, the compact site gives way to a sequence of light-filled interiors that feel expansive despite their scale. A central staircase, crowned by a skylight, acts as the home’s organising spine, drawing natural light deep into the plan and fostering a sense of vertical continuity. Communal spaces flow fluidly across levels, with living, dining, and kitchen areas maintaining a strong relationship with the outdoors, while bedrooms and private retreats are tucked away to ensure privacy.
The material palette extends the craftsmanship expressed on the exterior. White polished concrete floors provide a robust yet refined base, while perforated metal balustrades introduce a delicate interplay of light and shadow. Curved walls and openings guide movement and soften transitions between spaces, creating an atmosphere of calm. The selection of low-maintenance finishes—including terrazzo, brick, and concrete—ensures both durability and practicality, reinforcing the home’s ability to accommodate the evolving needs of family life.
The use of curvaceous forms is integral to the project’s identity. Externally, these gestures respond directly to the site’s truncations and setbacks, resolving constraints with a sculptural elegance. Internally, the same language frames views, enhances the flow of natural light, and shapes a serene domestic environment. The gentle curvature also mediates the boundary between interior and exterior, giving the home a cohesive spatial and visual character.
Choux exemplifies how a compact urban dwelling can feel both generous and connected. By harnessing natural light, embracing craftsmanship, and adopting a sculptural approach to form, State of Kin has created a family home that is resilient, distinctive, and deeply attuned to its context.
