Dissonant House

A Symphony of Heritage and Modernity

A masterful blend of history and contemporary design, Dissonant House reimagines a 1939 farmhouse through a fresh, modern lens. Nestled in a serene setting, this ambitious renovation merges the charm of yesteryear with cutting-edge architecture, creating a harmonious living space that caters to the needs of a young family.

From Farmhouse Roots to Modern Elegance

The story of Dissonant House revolves around a core element: a masonry-clad farmhouse built in 1939. This humble yet enduring structure, spanning approximately 130 square metres (1,400 square feet), provides the heart around which the home’s transformation unfolds. During the renovation, previous additions from the 1960s and 1980s were stripped away, allowing the farmhouse to regain its authentic character. Meanwhile, a third addition, built in the early 2000s, underwent a dramatic transformation—turning an inefficient studio into a luxurious Primary Suite for the owners.

  • Detailed view of Dissonant House’s textured facade featuring aluminum battens, natural stone elements, and greenery-filled planters, highlighting the blend of modern design with organic touches.
  • Corner view of Dissonant House with large windows framed by vertical aluminum battens, set against a lush green backdrop, merging modern architecture with natural surroundings.
  • Elegant view of Dissonant House and pool area during twilight, featuring a seamless blend of natural stone, textured battens, and warm interior lighting that enhances the outdoor ambiance.
  • Poolside view of Dissonant House with a modern lounge area and large windows that invite natural light into the living spaces, creating a serene and stylish outdoor retreat.
  • Modern exterior of Dissonant House at dusk, showcasing the rhythmic aluminum battens and large windows that blend into the natural surroundings, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

The Architecture of Rhythm and Contrast

Led by M Gooden Design, the project introduces a bold new addition to the house: a two-storey extension that balances historical charm with contemporary elements. This new section features a striking façade, defined by textured aluminium battens resting on a solid base of board-formed concrete walls. The battens’ rhythm is deliberately punctuated by a brise soleil—a sun-shading structure that filters the morning light into the dining area, creating a dynamic interplay of shadow and illumination.

The design ethos of Dissonant House mirrors the musical concept of dissonance and consonance, where tension finds its resolution. In this home, the structured battens and robust concrete convey a sense of modernity and strength, while the preserved farmhouse and open spaces offer a nostalgic warmth. This architectural dialogue creates an environment that feels both timeless and contemporary.

Light and Space: The Design’s Heartbeat

Natural light is central to the home’s design, creating a sense of openness and warmth. The original farmhouse’s A-frame roof has been enhanced with vaulted ceilings and northern-facing skylights, ensuring that the living room and kitchen remain bathed in gentle, indirect sunlight throughout the day. This thoughtful integration of light transforms the interiors into a series of dynamic, airy spaces that shift with the changing light, adding depth and movement to the home’s interior experience.

  • Minimalist living space in Dissonant House featuring a modern fireplace with a sleek wooden mantel, framed artwork, and a natural stone base, blending heritage and contemporary design.
  • Modern floating staircase in Dissonant House with wooden steps and glass railings, offering a view of the double-height dining area, showcasing the harmonious blend of modern architecture with natural light.
  • Sleek kitchen in Dissonant House with custom cabinetry, marble countertops, and a skylight that fills the space with natural light, highlighting the home's luxurious and functional design.
  • Spacious living room in Dissonant House featuring vaulted ceilings, expansive windows, and a minimal aesthetic, offering a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
  • Large kitchen island in Dissonant House with a marble countertop and built-in sink, set against custom wood cabinetry and bathed in natural light from the overhead skylight.
  • Detailed view of the modern wooden stair design in Dissonant House, showcasing the craftsmanship of the floating steps and the architectural rhythm created by the clean lines.
  • Open-plan kitchen and living area in Dissonant House with light wood flooring, a spacious kitchen island, and natural light streaming through large windows, creating an inviting and modern family space.
  • Contemporary kitchen in Dissonant House featuring a natural stone backsplash, minimalist cabinetry, and framed artwork, blending modern aesthetics with artistic touches and luxury finishes.

Crafting a Family Home

Spanning 511 square metres (5,500 square feet), Dissonant House offers ample space while maintaining a cohesive connection between the old and new. The addition provides an ideal setting for a young family, integrating contemporary comforts with a respect for the home’s historical roots. The project’s completion in 2022 marks not just the end of construction, but the beginning of a new chapter for a house that embodies the beauty of contrast—where tradition and innovation meet.

M Gooden Design’s vision for Dissonant House is an ode to the delicate balance of tension and resolution, creating a living space that is as much a work of art as it is a welcoming home. With its blend of heritage, modernity, and a deep understanding of architectural rhythm, this project offers inspiration for those who value both craftsmanship and bold innovation.


Details
  • Project size – 511m2
  • Completion date – 2022
  • Building levels – 2

Project Teams

Photographers