Beauty in Balance by Susi Leeton Architects

BEAUTY IN BALANCE

ARCHITECT Susi Leeton Architects + Interiors | BUILDER Visioneer Builder |LIGHTING DESIGN SLA & Adrian Pizzey | PHOTOGRAPHY Nicole England, Felix Mooneeram & Emily Ward | WORDS Bronwyn Marshall

Referencing subtle cues from its natured muse, Birch Tree House by Susi Leeton Architects + Interiors gently curves and meanders around its site as a welcomed counterbalance to the vibrancy of the family life it encases.

Sited on a generous allotment in Melbourne, Birch Tree House speaks to a lasting resonance, where the conjuring of a relaxed and emotive response is celebrated. Through a series of spaces that encourage a tangible engagement, curved and linear elements come together through a muted softness, carving out unique meditative moments within the greater whole, while embracing its landscape.

Natural light and soft materials have been used to create an atmosphere of light and shade, with refined and tonal finishes. Considered subtleties of textural polished plaster and light oak timber flooring add warmth emphasising scale and an inherent cohesiveness, while contrasting elements of natural limestone and heavy flowing linen sit alongside each other as an equaliser.

The Botolo by Cini Boeri for Arflex and artwork, ‘My Country’ (2006) by Sally Gabori offer playful colour and texture to the Marmorino polished plaster walls and limed oak floors.

The relaxed living area features the Paulistano armchair by Paulo Mendes Da Rocha for Objekto, Delano sofa by Pianca and artwork, ‘Thund Barramundi Story’ (2008) by Sally Gabori.

As a calming and composed place of respite, that is also deeply introspective, Birch Tree House uses solid masonry to define the exterior envelope, while thin-framed apertures connect to the expressed arches of the surrounding pergola, adding a sculptural rhythm to the space.

The kitchen features the Macon Classic Lacanche in Deft Blue in the kitchen, coupled with the handmade Nazari Fes tiled-splashback from EARP Bros. Uccio leather stools by Daniel Barbera for Barbera Design are tucked under the by Willy Guhl in the custom island. Art by Billy Benn Perrurle and Piers Greville.

Discreet and nuanced, Birch Tree House modestly navigates its site with a refreshing curation of its many parts, bringing natural and sculpted elements with softer and unexpected pops of colour. Classical proportions and an innate softness underpin the resulting home, revealing itself through inspiration from how the spaces should feel and engage its occupants.

The Thonet Chair 20 dining chairs and Bronze Table by Daniel Barbera for Barbera Design create an informal dining setting by the landscaped outdoor space.

The deep blue Marenco sofa by Mario Marenco for Arflex punctuates the neutral palette.

Teal glazed handmade Bijmat tiles from EARP Bros. call on the home’s signature curves, together with Signorino limestone tiles.

SUSI LEETON ARCHITECTS + INTERIORS SIGNATURE STYLE

BIJMAT FRENCH BLUE

EARP BROS

ZELLIJ PAMPAS

EARP BROS

TUNDRA GREY

PIETRA STONE GALLERY

WHITE SMOKED

ROYAL OAK FLOORS

MARENCO SOFA

ARFLEX

3818 BERBER RUG

LOOM RUGS

Birch Tree House challenges conflicting notions of modesty and luxury in an understated manner. Reflecting generosity and gentleness of space was our aspiration.

– Susi Leeton

COMO PULL IN TUMBLED BRASS

PITTELLA

SULLY ‘CLASSIC’

LACANCHE