In a much-loved heritage setting in leafy Hawthorn sits a timeless double-storey home. While acutely sensitive to the multitude of period homes in the area, its bold contemporary forms make a clear statement. Through a considered design approach and judicious material selection, Hawthorn Grove is a quiet standout.
It’s thoughtful creativity at its best, thanks to the ultra-talented, yet humble, Matthew Herbert, founder of Herbert & Howes.
The family who calls Hawthorn Grove home, enjoy a spacious and light-filled four bedroom, four and a half bathroom house, complete with study, twin living areas, landscaped garden and pool. A particular highlight of the internal design is a magnificent central spiral staircase, naturally lit by an overhead circular skylight, directing light into the home’s core; the clever use of space and light throughout has created a feeling of spaciousness on a compact allotment.
The entire design is simple and understated, yet sophisticated in its refinement.
The material palette is case in point. Materials were selected for their tactile quality, luxurious appearance and timeless appeal, with a focus on traditional building materials that are low maintenance and beautiful, complementing the homes adjoining the site.
Externally, the handmade Petersen Kolumba™ bricks, without doubt, are the clear hero.
“The Petersen Kolumba™ (K50) bricks (or Petersen Bricks in general) are a favourite of ours, and were the perfect fit for a new home in a heritage neighbourhood. The traditional method of manufacture of these bricks ties in perfectly with the more than century old area,” Matt explains.
Most striking in the external design is “the curved projection of the internal spiral staircase on the façade, beautifully finished with handmade Petersen K50 bricks. These have been individually cut into thirds to create the external expression of the stairs within,” Matt continues. Full praise goes to bricklayer Rob Morgan and his team from RSM Bricklaying, who have done an immaculate job.
The result? Pure Brick Art.
Blackened matte finish steel and light timber cladding complete the external palette, superbly complementing the pale grey brickwork. Lush green plantings deliver an exquisite finishing touch, contributing as much to the overall appearance of the architecture as the materials themselves, bringing Hawthorn Grove to full, remarkable life. We particularly love this stunning wall of greenery, below, against the pale grey brickwork and render.
Dean Dugdale Developments had the family happily settled in well before Christmas 2020 despite the hurdles of COVID. Herbert & Howes, and the entire team, are to be congratulated for delivering an outstanding home with a striking contemporary style that sits more than comfortably within its heritage context. Three years on, the home was easily and quickly sold just in time for its new occupants to enjoy a summer of entertaining family and friends.
Architect: Herbert & Howes
Product: Petersen Kolumba™ bricks (K50)
Builder: Dean Dugdale Developments
Bricklayer: Rob Morgan, RSM Bricklaying
Landscape design: Dean Dugdale Developments
Photography: Nicole England