Villa Carlo
Considering architecture and interiors as one, Villa Carlo by Daniel Boddam Studio is a holistic, contemporary interpretation of the Californian bungalow. Located in Sydney’s harbourside suburb of Mosman, Villa Carlo embodies Boddam’s signature considered simplicity, drawing focus to artisanal craft and the clients’ coveted collection of art.
Being a semi detached dwelling, Boddam sought to create a dialogue with its neighbouring counterpart; a white rendered brick home that was once more akin to a traditional bungalow. In response, Boddam crafted a narrative around the authenticity of materials, distilling the composition of the home into a series of elemental forms that adopt the horizontal language of the bungalow typology.
A weighty grey sandstone podium grounds the structure, supporting a ground floor of rendered brick and off- form concrete with a light-weight upper level of charred cambria ash. Boddam turned to Carlo Scarpa’s celebrated Brion Vega Cemetery for deferent guidance, informing a consistent approach of stepped and sculpted details.
Key touchpoints create a considered spatial journey, starting from the custom brass pull to the entry door. Inside, the concrete stair establishes an intriguing sculptural quality. A splice in the building envelope introduces a sliver of light where ascending meets descending; a refined and poetic gesture inviting a spirited interplay of shadow and light throughout the day.
The ground floor is thoughtfully composed of two wings separated by a generous courtyard that draws in northern light. Communal living spaces are positioned to the east to optimise views to the harbour, with the garage and kids bedrooms to the west. This winged arrangement provides scale and comfort for the two principal residents, while allowing ancillary spaces to be opened up to host children and grandchildren as desired.
The wide passage connecting the two wings forms a vibrant gallery space showcasing the clients’ prestigious contemporary art collection. The colourful hues animate the otherwise restrained material sensibility, presenting an engaging spectacle that holds presence from many vantages.
Above, a master suite offers a relaxing reprise with wide-ranging views across Balmoral Beach. Custom joinery, walk-in robes and a well-appointed ensuite offer a luxurious and calming experience. A secondary living area creates a space of retreat, opening to a balcony that invites cooling coastal breezes.
Villa Carlo is holistically designed with architectural and interior details forming a consistent and harmonious dialogue - ‘the macro is in the micro’, reflects Boddam. As patrons of the arts, the creative interest of the clients is reflected in the spirit of the house, which confidently interweaves art, living spaces, light and nature; an enduring and poetic outcome.
