Project: Industrial Escape House
Architecture: Studio Parisi Architects
Location: Drummoyne, New South Valley, Australia
Area: 300 m2
Year: 2023
Photo Credits: THAT Photographer
The Industrial Escape House is a modern home set in a classic suburban neighborhood. This striking residence uses bold industrial materials alongside lush greenery and a central northern courtyard to create a unique balance between raw architecture and natural beauty.
Design Duality: Brutalism Meets Nature
The clients wanted a home that mixed the husband’s love for strong, industrial forms with the wife’s desire for a deep connection to nature. The architects delivered by combining exposed concrete, steel, and reclaimed brick with generous natural light and vibrant landscaping. This blend creates a space that feels both powerful and peaceful.
Central Courtyard and Indoor/Outdoor Connection
A large, open courtyard forms the heart of the house. It floods the interior with natural light and fresh air. Large double-glazed sliding doors wrap around the courtyard. As a result, residents enjoy a seamless flow between the indoors and outdoors. This design also offers quiet private spaces that still connect with nature.
Innovation and Craftsmanship in Detail
One of the home’s standout features is a sculptural staircase that rises six meters. The staircase is engineered to minimize deflection while keeping a sleek, minimalist look. Exposed steel beams, columns, and board-formed concrete showcase the building’s construction. In addition, board-marked off-form concrete, imprinted with Oregon pine, adds warmth and softens the look of the raw materials.
Sustainability and Passive Design Excellence
The Industrial Escape House excels in energy efficiency. The design uses passive strategies that capture and store warmth in winter and provide natural cooling in summer. Strategically placed windows and ventilation systems optimize airflow, reducing the need for mechanical heating and cooling. Reclaimed bricks add historical texture and cut down on new resource use. Thick, thermally efficient concrete walls help regulate indoor temperatures, and light-colored roofing reduces heat absorption. Solar panels further support the home’s green goals.
In short, the Industrial Escape House offers a fresh take on modern living. It skillfully balances bold industrial design with natural elements and sustainable strategies. This home stands as a dynamic, energy-efficient retreat that connects its residents with both the urban and natural worlds.
