A Strong Builder Bond Results in a Sophisticated Australian Home
The multi-million dollar, four-bedroom property is the home of Bear Agushi, the founder and director of Melbourne boutique residential builders AGUSHI, who also oversaw the construction of the property.
Working with Australian architects and interior designers Workroom, AGUSHI has used luxurious finishes, such as natural stone, brass, and European Oak parquetry, to bring to life a contemporary, elegant home.
Unfolding dramatically from the street, the 5,920-square-foot mansion, which includes a basement garage, is conceived as a three-story box embedded in sunken gardens, with a top section that cantilevers over glass rooms.
A view of Huntingtower seen from the street.
Part of the house is embedded under the lush, landscaped garden.
The meticulous landscaping was achieved by Australian landscape architect Jack Merlo.
Upon entering the abode, a sculptural, folded-plate staircase immediately catches the eye.
The steel staircase is one of the mansion's most unique features.
The open-plan living room connects to the kitchen and outdoors.
"A narrative unfolds of stunning detail and tactile material of raw steel, dark paneled walls, concrete, bronze, timber and stone—elements that invite you to touch and feel," says Bear.
Workroom director and architect John Bornas has worked with AGUSHI on several projects, and both teams are much in agreement when it comes to design sensibilities and attention to detail.
"Our approach to the house was very considered, and transcends fashion. The connection between the building and the inhabitant is grounded through a rigorous exploration of scale, form, space, and material. The delicate palette of materials and intricate detailing bestows elegance and luxury," explains Bornas.
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The layout includes living and entertaining areas, four bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a secure, four-car basement garage, a chef’s kitchen, a butler’s pantry, and a resort-style alfresco lounge zone with a pool and outdoor kitchen.
A lavish, velvet-upholstered red sofa in the living room.
"We’ve developed a great working relationship where we understand and respect what each brings to a project. Bear understands the architectural intent and interprets it skillfully and successfully. This not only enhances the finished building, it ensures a seamless process along the way," says Bornas.
A hallway with European Oak parquet floors.
One of four bedrooms.
Bornas and his team at Workroom contrasted and harmonized each element of the design to create "a sense of consistency that adds to the depth of experience." Interior stylist Simone Haag added the finishing touches with carefully selected furniture and objects.
A bathroom with natural stone floor and walls.
A study area for two.
The living room opens out to an alfresco area with a pool.
Wood floors and carpet provide a warm contrast to the cool concrete walls.
Project Credits:
Architecture and interior design: Workroom / @workroom_design
Builder: AGUSHI / @agushigroup
Structural and civil engineering: FMG Engineering
Landscape architect: Jack Merlo;
Cabinetry design: Workroom
Cabinetry production and installation: Nantak Kitchens, @natakkitchens
Interior stylist: Simone Haag ; @simonehaag
Photography: Derek Swalwell
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