Stairs

A large skylight mirrors the plan of the stairs, allowing light to fall into the corridors.

Stair

Sleek black steel encases the wooden stair treads that connect the home's three floors.

Minimal interventions by architect Andrew Simpson allowed this former jam warehouse outside of Melbourne, Australia, to be turned into a family residence. "To draw light and ventilation into what was a poorly oriented and deep footprint, an extensive number of operable skylights were introduced on the north- and south-facing roof pitches, and a large void connecting the floors was strategically positioned to also take advantage of this amenity," Simpson says. American oak floorboards and Dulux paint were used throughout the property for continuity.

The staircase is a sculptural feature that brings together all of the elements of the project palette, including white concrete at the base, wood, and black steel. The white concrete is meant to appear as though it is emerging from the wood platform.

A stairway plays with light and form.

A staircase guides visitors from the home's entry in the rough cement base to the bright and airy residential space.

Another view of the staircase. The carpet is by Stanton.

The interior openings frame composed sightlines of the sculptural internal staircase.

At the taller end of the 2,575-square-foot house, a second story holds two bedrooms, one of which Justine uses as a music room and office.