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Gumley Groove
Gumley Groove, Milton, NSW
Project Team
Architecture: Tony O’Meara + Kalpana Sagar
Planning: AO Design Studio
Basix Certificate: AO Design Studio
Structural + Civil Engineer: Westlake Punnett
Hydraulic Engineer: Westlake Punnett
Builder: MJM Building Projects
Certifier: AMG Building Consultant
Getting in the Groove
The project draws influence from iconic Mid-Century Modern architecture, notably the heritage-listed ‘Rose Seidler House’. Gumley Groove inherits the same sensitivity by fostering a sympathetic relationship with the street and neighbourhood. The architectural approach features a split-level layout that enhances its connection to the surrounding environment while providing diverse functions, with the lower level functioning as a versatile self-contained studio, complete with a bathroom, external storage, and a single garage and offering flexibility and privacy, with the ability to accommodate guests or serve as a secondary function. The upper level accommodates an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area and a combined laundry pantry with external access as the more public spaces, with a strong brick blade wall acting as a divide between the more private spaces with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, with the main bedroom having access to the northern deck.
This deck stretches the full width of the upper level and extends the living area out to the view and northern sun, allowing the façade to fully open up and allow the cooling summer breezes through the whole space. The deck is part of the circulation and entertaining space but is also a private refuge with a free-standing bath for relaxation and bathing in the sunlight. Access to this upper level is proposed through a sculptural spiral staircase that is a further nod to the architectural style of the house.
Mid-Century Comfort
Sustainable design principles are integral to ‘Gumley Groove’, focusing on Architectural Harmony and how the building interfaces with the local context and streetscape. The design's honesty helps ensure minimal disruption to the town's existing character. An emphasis on merging Indoor-Outdoor Living, enabling fluidity along the planning and ensuring that every room is naturally lit and ventilated, drawing the sea breeze through the house, reducing reliance on mechanical climate control. The roof overhang not only provides protection and shade while sitting out on the deck, but it also protects the wall of glazing here from the harsh summer sun, allowing the internal environment to remain cool; at the same time, the length of the overhang invites the winter sun to warm the main living areas. Creating a home that is comfortable all year round.
Adaptable Spaces ensure future flexibility, supporting future occupants by allowing the home to change to the needs of the residents but always lending itself spatially to congregations around the dinner table to share meals and stories between family and friends.
Client Focused Design
The starting point for Gumley Groove was a tight block off a laneway, with stormwater easements down each side, a sewer through the middle, and an outdated development control plan. Luckily, we had a wonderful and enthusiastic client who had such a strong idea for the site that it made it a joy to work on the project, and we are so excited to see it come to life.
With beautiful distance views towards the coast and back towards the rolling hills from the higher parts of the site, it was evident from the outset that the main living spaces and master bedrooms needed to be elevated to take advantage of this. Playing with the massing and scale of the house, we aimed to recess the base level of the building and further emphasise the horizontality of the upper level. As it was only a narrow frontage, with these horizontal elements, it would appear much taller and obtrusive. We wanted the house to feel immediately settled and grounded on approach, inviting you to traverse the spiral staircase to the northern deck into another world.
Architect’s summary
‘Gumley Groove’ embodies a modernist oasis in Milton, combining the charm of Mid-Century Modern architecture with contemporary functionality. The house's design is a perfect example of a client's infectious enthusiasm, bringing out the best in us and creating a home that is inspired by them and for them. We know the client will love the panoramic views of the distant coastline and rolling hills with the positioning of the main living spaces and the thoughtful design of the roof, allowing these spaces to be comfortable all year round. The adaptability of the space will always ensure the house feels welcoming and safe when alone or as a gathering space for family and friends. With its architectural inspiration rooted in historical styles prevalent in the town and a strong focus on modern living and passive design, ‘Gumley Groove’ works effortlessly to fit into its rural coastal setting.