Balance and Contrast - Bischoff Residence by Tom Mark Henry & Unfold Architecture

Built by JCORP Construction and styled by Montana Valich, Bischoff Residence covers just over 600 square metres, with interiors by Tom Mark Henry. Designed to deliberate between the two pavilions, upon entry visitors are greeted with the feature stair in a large and expansive floor-to-ceiling glazed entry hall. This gesture of light and space marks the connecting point between the two pavilions. Wrapped in a Japanese hard plaster, the softness and tactility of this hero gesture sets the tone for the palette and materiality throughout.

In collaboration with Unfold Architecture, Tom Mark Henry’s Bischoff Residence is a fusion of styles and times, referencing the site and the client’s history, and a forward-projecting future through architecture.

Carefully considered openings and light wells have been injected strategically throughout to further increase the connection between inside and outside, and to reinforce the connection to the site. The two pavilions reflect not only a contrast between styles, but also a considered separation in their inherent functionality. One is purposed as the more passive and reductive space, represented with a darker palette. The other reflects a series of more active and connecting spaces, with a brighter and more light-filled approach.

The resulting home sees two main formal pavilions come together on site, much like the aforementioned styles and methodology, which are united around the central helical stair.

The use of colour is not only delineative of use, but also assists in creating a sense of space and ensuing mood within. Reflecting the traditional, the parquetry flooring is a nod to the traditional, along with the traditionally \-detailed joinery components. These elements are intended to work in harmony with the more hidden details and streamlined minimalist direction of the contemporary.

Designed as a play on contrasts, and how these opposing elements can come together in unison, Bischoff Residence is an encouraging example of differing styles converging. Tom Mark Henry’s interior approach, and collaboration with Unfold Architecture, have resulted in a series of refreshingly forward-thinking spaces, taking heed from both the traditional and pieces of contemporary relevance.