GRUYERE FARMHOUSE
“HILLTOP HOOD” - YARRA VALLEY, VICTORIA
Perched in Victoria's Yarra Valley, Gruyere farmhouse, a testament to a five-year journey overcoming planning challenges, a pandemic, and harsh weather, reflects close collaboration between architects, consultants, builders, and clients. Set on a 100-acre property, it seamlessly integrates into the hillside, influenced by clients' intimate knowledge from a self-contained cabin. The design features a courtyard framing breathtaking views and an iconic "Hilltop Hood" roof protecting the lighter-framed living pavilion.
Strategic material choices harmonize the farmhouse with its surroundings, including mature orchards preserving view lines. The secluded courtyard offers protected amenities, embodying a blueprint celebrating harmony between design and challenging weather patterns.
The design process considered the challenging topography of the 100-acre property, addressing site access, services, and material transportation and the client's specific preferences. The design seamlessly integrates into the Gruyere hillside, and carefully placing built forms to create a protected courtyard with three distinct wings, defining a functional program guided by materials that echo the natural geology and soil colours on-site and the broader Yarra Ranges context.
The Gruyere farmhouse's conceptual framework is grounded in a deep understanding of the site and the client's preferences. Shaped by planning conditions, the design seamlessly integrates the built form into the hillside, respecting the existing ridge line. The inspiration drawn from the Yarra Ranges silhouette for the iconic roof design reflects a commitment to harmonizing with nature and contextual influences.
The functional performance of the Gruyere farmhouse is meticulously resolved against the extensive client brief. The thoughtful placement of built forms, the incorporation of handmade bricks for bedroom and utility spaces, and the lighter, delicate structure of the main living pavilion showcase a commitment to fulfilling the program requirements for a luxurious family home.
STATUS
Completed 2022
TYPE
Residential - New Farmhouse
SERVICES
Concept Design, Design Development, Full Documentation, Material, Finshes & Lighitng Specifications, Contract Administration, Consultant Coordination.
AWARDS
2024 Good Design Award Winner - Architectural Design
PHOTOGRAPHY
Gruyere Farmhouse Site Plan
Gruyere Farmhouse Ground Floor Plan
Gruyere Farmhouse Elevations