Australian Institute of Architects

 

Rara Architecture

4/109 Hawke Street
WEST MELBOURNE VIC 3003

Ph. 03 9328 4220

wesley@raraarchitecture.com.au
https://raraarchitects.melbourne/

 

Rara's strongest value is that well considered architecture should be available to everybody; projects of all scales and budgets.

We are dedicated to providing smart, cost-effective spaces, that respond to the client’s brief, their lifestyle and the characteristics of the property.

Rara aims to create spaces that are tailored to the end user: enjoyable to use and aesthetically pleasing. ​

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We work continuously with our clients from initial concept design stages to construction allowing for a smooth process alongside impeccable project management.


Project profiles

Monolith House

Clifton Hill, 2015

Our mission was to reinstate the old home's glory through highlighting its simplistic characteristics and its overall form. We stripped it right back to a neutral state. The height of the rear addition had the potential to dwarf the original heritage home, so, sympathetically, we mimicked the roof angle, but didn't hide it. Nothing about the addition is trying to hide anything. The old building transitions smoothly to the new, visually and emotionally, both internally and externally - the old floorboards transition to a new polished concrete slab, the old weatherboards transition to a perforated brick wall (outlining the central Zen garden) and then again to a solid brick wall. The addition, which can be enjoyed from the rear lanes and from within the property stands proud, like the existing Edwardian; it stands high, and strong without any exaggeration or excess, it is brutal, minimal and statuesque: a monolith.



Gravity Cryotherapy Centre

South Yarra, 2017

Having 3 significant structural columns in the middle of the space! Coming up with a practical floor plan with good spatial flow was a challenge and took several iterations in the process, but in the end we decided to highlight the columns, leave them bare and to use them as directional elements, turning points that would guide the users through the space. They also became elements to which signage was applied helping direct people through their Cryotherapy experience.



Perched House

Fitzroy North, 2017

Perched - like a sparrow. Perched is a light extension at the rear of an inner city semi-detached Edwardian house that curves above your head. Our client wanted to renovate the existing rear extension which was structurally sound and add a bedroom - she had no idea we would reconfigure the entire house. The kitchen was a very important component of the design as her partner is a chef - this had to take pride of place since entertaining and social gatherings around the island bench is a way of life for them.



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