Proclamation House: A Contemporary Interpretation of Character Homes in Subiaco

The Proclamation House, designed by State of Kin in Subiaco, Australia, exemplifies a contemporary interpretation of character homes, blending modern design with traditional architecture. This innovative home provides a serene inner-city sanctuary for a multi-generational family. Situated in a character retention area of Subiaco, it embraces the neighborhood’s historical essence while meeting the specific needs of its inhabitants—a professional couple and a parent. With an open brief from the client, the design emphasizes light-filled, flexible spaces for family interaction and relaxation, enhancing the everyday living experience.

A Contemporary Twist on Subiaco's Architectural Identity

The design of Proclamation House draws inspiration from Subiaco’s rich history of character homes. The project responds thoughtfully to the local context, respecting the proportions, volumes, and setbacks typical of the area’s heritage houses. However, this new interpretation finds fresh expression through a series of abstracted, sweeping, and angular planes, offering a contemporary take on the traditional character cottage vernacular. The use of olive-toned hemp render adds warmth to the structure, seamlessly blending with its natural surroundings, particularly the two Peppermint trees framing the property.

A Light-Filled, Spacious Interior

The home’s seemingly single-story façade gives way to a light-filled interior that offers an expansive sanctuary for daily living. The floor level is lowered to maximize light flow and create a sense of openness. The design incorporates a pitched roof, which generates voluminous light wells, enhancing the natural light inside and creating a dynamic and airy atmosphere throughout the home. This innovative spatial layout fosters a deep connection with nature and the surrounding landscape.

Thoughtful Design for Communal Living

On the ground floor, the design thoughtfully arranges the communal living spaces around a central garden, allowing for easy access to natural light, ventilation, and the surrounding landscape. This layout promotes privacy by creating a buffer between the private bedroom areas while fostering a sense of connection to the exterior. The open living, dining, and kitchen areas flow seamlessly into the garden, enhancing the indoor-outdoor connection and creating a vibrant hub for family interaction.

Mezzanine and Multi-Functional Spaces

Above the main living area, a mezzanine level offers a unique vertical dialogue between spaces. This level features a study area that doubles as a guest sleeping zone, adding flexibility to the layout. The mezzanine connects the private areas of the home with the communal spaces below, ensuring that the entire home remains functional and adaptable to the evolving needs of the family. The open-plan layout creates a dynamic environment, where every room is versatile, serving various functions at different times.

Material Palette and Interior Finishes

The material palette of Proclamation House is minimal yet elegant, featuring natural materials like oxidized concrete, brushed stainless steel, natural stone, and timbers finished in warm walnut or blackened oiled textures. The olive-toned hemp render applied both inside and outside gives the house a unified look while responding to changing light throughout the day. Inside, soft finishes, furniture, and lighting are strategically layered over the home's monochromatic shell to create depth and define different zones within the open-plan layout. The combination of historic and contemporary furnishings, along with custom-made local pieces, ensures the home’s timeless appeal. These elements allow the design to evolve gracefully over time.

A Balanced Home for the Future

Proclamation House is an outstanding example of contemporary architecture that respects its context while meeting the needs of its residents. Its innovative design blends historical references with modern elements to create a home that will remain relevant for years to come. The house’s commitment to sustainability, functional design, and aesthetic harmony ensures that it will continue to be a multi-generational family home for decades, perfectly balancing the demands of modern living with the architectural character of Subiaco.

All Photographs are work of Jack Lovel