A house for artists


A unique regional home built for two artists to live and work in.

Being an Architect is a little like fatherhood – you’re not supposed to have a favourite child. At Yellingbo it comes close. Close in that, when reflecting upon each completed project, I ask what could been done better? At Yellingbo Artists’ House, the end result is one of harmony between many forces. The strong artistic direction and pedigree of the clients and their needs, balanced with our driving ethos of ‘fashioning architecture out of considered space.

— Michael Ellis
Gallery and library
Gallery and library

This artists’ house in rural Yellingbo is a work of art in which all other art is housed.

The home and studio sits on approx. 1.4 acres with the house sited on the portion of largely flat land in the ranges east of Melbourne.

The stone wall serves to bind the plan, forming a tension that holds the spaces together. This tension is alleviated by the clear glazed entry door, a first for this office, illustrating the freedoms offered by a rural site and facilitating a dramatic reveal of space upon entry.

The gallery provides us with much pleasure and an area to reflect and contemplate life away from the rush of working in the city.

Client (GDA comments)

The floor plan incorporates a zone for resting and a zone for working. Joining the two zones is an expansive living / dining / kitchen space featuring a polyurethane membrane and suspended French fireplace.

The space overlooks a glorious black tiled pool and life-sized sculptures dotting acres of lush green landscape, which is added to and replenished as an ongoing project.

Media

The residence featured in season 2, episode 8 of Grand Designs Australia. Link

Complete Home, 2013

Architzer, 2014

Contractors and consultants

Builder: Tim Skate Constructions / Joinery: Centrefire Shopfitting / Landscape: Frank Wood / Pool: Elite Pools / Stone: Peter Straker

Suppliers

Stone: Mt. Angus Sandstone / Timber: Woodform Architectural, Ambro / Floor Tiles: Victorian Bluestone Quarries / Carpet: Supertuft / Bathroom: Reece / Bathroom Accessories: Apaiser

Yellingbo Design E1599889134440, Michael Ellis Architects
A design process rendering.