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.
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.
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
- M Gooden Design – Architecture and Interiors
- Michael Gooden – Lead Designer
- Kevan Russell – Project Architect