Orb House

‘Orb House’ adopts a minimalist aesthetic as a counterpoint to the patchwork architectural fabric that makes up it’s streetscape tapestry. Located on a unique site descending rapidly towards the Yarra River, it is an exploration of contrasts through purity of form – a simple transparent circle in a congested patchwork quilt.

Inspired by the dwellings of ancient Pompeii, our approach was to create a tranquil introspective living environment based on the central courtyard typology. The building’s form and footprint is characterized by a curved central spine wall which defines two distinct zones – the ‘living’ zone within the rim and the ‘sleeping’ zone beyond.

Aspiring towards a future residential prototype the ‘Orb House’ adopts tried and tested methodologies from the ancient past – a ‘back to the future’ kind of approach.