Underhill – Bates Masi + Architects

When a tree change is done right, this is the result. The owners, a couple and their family, who wanted to leave city life behind to give their kids a better life in the suburbs engaged renowned firm Bates Masi to realise their dream.

Working within suburban constraints of close neighbours and privacy issues, the firm devised a program of four structures that turned inward on themselves to reveal large and angular openings to allow light and air to stream into each courtyard around which all rooms radiate. Moreover, a connection to the surrounding area, historically Quaker, was created through the use of shingles across the complete structure.

Typical of Bates Masi’s work, the interiors are an exercise in fine tailored material and exceptional details. Timber ceilings and flooring create a subtle warmth throughout while the furnishings are simple and sympathetic echoing the Quaker ideals the house was created from.