May 20, 2020

Text: Elissaveta M. Brandon

Timber Carries Through a Melbourne Apartment by Studio Martin

Rattan furniture and a Togo living room set by Michel Ducaroy for Ligne Roset make up the living room’s seating area. Photography by Martina Gemmola.

In a work of art, literature, or music, leitmotivs hold great significance—and architecture is no stranger to this creative device. In this Australian residence on the outskirts of Melbourne, the recurring motif comes in the shape of a handsome timber battened wall paneling carried throughout the home.

Crafted out of solid spotted gum and custom designed by local practice Studio Martin, which designed the full interiors of the space, the timber battened wall paneling is balanced with a careful selection of natural materials. In the bathrooms, the warm timber tones contrast with a circular bath and vanity unit made out of honed Carrara marble, and in the living room, white linen curtains help soften the mood. “Overall, the minimalist aesthetic overlaid with the richness of warm and natural materials was the key to creating the clients dream space,” say Studio Martin sisters and founders, Laura and Amanda Martin.

The bathroom is lined with a custom-made timber battened wall paneling that contrasts with a circular bathtub and vanity unit made out of Carrara marble. Photography by Martina Gemmola.
In the kitchen, the timber battens are deconstructed as solid spotted gum timber joinery handles that match the veneer. Photography by Martina Gemmola.
A rattan lounge chair from Sika Design adds a touch of rusticity to a minimal apartment. Photography by Martina Gemmola.
A black and white Loom towel hangs inside a full-height timber wardrobe that incorporates a custom timber towel rail. Photography by Martina Gemmola.
The timber-lined living room is brightened by white linen curtains and a Nelson Saucer Wall Sconce by George Nelson for Herman Miller. Photography by Martina Gemmola.

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