A Contemporary Farmhouse Surrounded By Murray River Views
A contemporary farmhouse that fosters connection with the incredible Australian landscape. Designed by Mountford Williamson Architects the Wigley Flat House takes full advantage of the expansive Murry River views and the surrounding Mallee bushland. With a brief for a home that connected the inhabitants with the landscape, the architects created a building that is a modern interpretation of the classic Australian farmhouse. The home was also to be used for entertaining, explains architect Martin Williamson. “we were asked to provide for spaces that could accommodate large gatherings in different configurations inside and out. At the same time, the house also needed to provide a level of retreat and privacy to the owners.”
Mountford Williamson Architects reinterpreted the farmhouse form into a series of simple gabled pavilions. “This strategy helps break the mass of this large home into discrete elements”, says Martin. The smaller scale has helped to respectively integrate the building into the bush and riverscape without distracting from the natural beauty of the setting. “The separation of the main elements of the house also allowed us to clearly transition between the quieter, more private spaces to those that are more public such as living and entertaining”. The position of the pavilions has capitalised on the sweeping views from the interior spaces and provided access to the outdoor areas. “These views connecting people to the Murray River are a key focal point of the design”, says Martin.
The materials chosen for the Wigley Flat House further strengthen the relationship between the architecture and the landscape. The use of corrugated steel is reflective of the farmhouse inspiration and rural architecture, while the timber and stone add a natural element to the built form. “We felt that the soft hues and tones of Garonne Limestone made a fantastic connection with the colours and textures of the bush and river landscape outside”, explains Martin. “It was a key factor in helping to visually bring the outside in.” Photography: Phillip Handforth
