DESIGNBOOM: state of kin wraps ‘shutter house’ in timber batten skin in western australia

situated in wembley, western australia, ‘shutter house’ by state of kin comprises a concrete block structure wrapped in a secondary timber batten skin. the perth-based multidisciplinary design studio has clad the residence in an operable façade with a mechanical system that allows users to open and close it at any time. inside, the three-story home is developed as a light filled sanctuary, with a rich color and material palette that includes hand-seeded terrazzo, exposed concrete ceilings, and carefully sourced granite, quartzite and travertine.images by jack lovel and sophie pearce

state of kin has wrapped ‘shutter house’ in a skin of locally sourced timber that creates a warm and tactile materiality while subtly contrasting the rest of the external finishes. the mechanical system allows the façade to open and close, offering a sense of enclosure and intimacy whilst allowing unobstructed views to the nearby lake. set on a sloping site, the home’s design manipulates the existing topography to achieve connectivity between indoor and outdoor areas.

 interspersed courtyard spaces connect internal and external zones throughout the house. its ground floor consists of a six car garage, wine cellar and entry into a three-story void that connects all levels via a feature staircase. four bedrooms, three bathrooms, laundry and gallery are located on the first floor, along with intimate courtyard and balcony spaces adjoining each bedroom. the second floor features an open plan living, dining and kitchen area that offers panoramic views of lake monger, and connects to a terrace and pool area with separate studio.

the state of kin interiors and architecture team focused on creating a light-filled sanctuary that is rich in color and materiality. interiors are characterized by unique and hand-crafted finishes, including the hand-seeded terrazzo of the ground level and the oak parquetry of the upper floors. contemporary abstract art and a curation of playfully sophisticated furniture pieces from mobilia complete the house.

‘shutter house is an expression of the designer’s appreciation of japanese architecture through the use of light and detail, and imbued with references to mid-century design that pays homage to the architectural history of its context,’ notes the perth-based studio.