LDS Residence, located in the heart of Melbourne’s Caulfield suburb, is a striking example of modern architecture, seamlessly blending form and function. Designed by Davidov Architects and photographed by Enceladus Studio, this family home draws heavy inspiration from mid-century modern design, particularly the works of 20th-century architect Louis Kahn. Through a thoughtful arrangement of spaces, materials, and forms, LDS Residence showcases a deep connection between architectural heritage and contemporary living.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Location: Caulfield, Melbourne, Australia
Architecture & Interior Design: Davidov Architects
Photography: Enceladus Studio
The residence’s design honors the minimalist principles of Kahn, creating a home where social spaces are easily accessible while private areas remain secluded. The result is a seamless flow that supports the family’s daily activities, making the LDS Residence as functional as it is visually captivating.
Situated in a neighborhood known for its mid-century architecture, LDS Residence pays homage to the area’s aesthetic with a visually restrained, rectilinear façade. Its modern exterior is balanced by a warm, inviting interior that embraces natural light and open spaces. The transition from public to private areas is marked by a gradual softening of the design, with the north-facing rear opening up to expansive grounds, fostering an atmosphere of relaxation and retreat.
Internally, the home is designed to support family life. Delicate timber screens are a prominent feature, creating a balance between intimacy and openness. These screens allow light to flow through the central corridor, adding a natural warmth and emphasizing the airy feel of the interior spaces. This approach mirrors the mid-century works of notable designers like Schulim Krimper and Dario Zoureff, giving the home a timeless, artistic touch.
Davidov Architects skillfully employed Louis Kahn’s concept of ‘served’ and ‘servant’ spaces to structure the layout of LDS Residence. The ‘served’ spaces, including the main living areas, are positioned along the central circulation routes, easily accessible and designed for family gatherings and social interactions. In contrast, the ‘servant’ spaces—such as the kitchen and bathrooms—are tucked away along secondary circulation paths, maintaining a sense of privacy while remaining functional and accessible.
At the heart of the home lies a sunken lounge, evoking the design of Eero Saarinen’s iconic Miller House. This central living space serves as both an informal gathering spot and a social hub. From this lounge, residents can enjoy views of the front entrance and the lush rear courtyard, creating a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. The barrel vault ceiling, stretching across the home, further enhances this sense of openness, while individual vaults in each room highlight the unique dimensions of the space.
The material selection throughout LDS Residence plays a crucial role in defining its atmosphere. A natural palette of timber and travertine reinforces the home’s connection to nature, while also allowing the focus to remain on the carefully curated furnishings and objects within. These materials, used in both structural and decorative elements, lend a sense of continuity between the home’s interior and exterior, while also aging gracefully over time, enhancing the beauty of the home’s patina.
Mechanical systems, including heating and cooling, are discreetly integrated into the design, concealed within walls and joinery to maintain the home’s clean, minimalist aesthetic. Instead of traditional overhead lighting, strategically placed spotlights illuminate artwork and other details, adding a subtle yet dramatic effect.
LDS Residence by Davidov Architects is a masterful blend of modern and mid-century design, paying tribute to architectural icons while maintaining a strong sense of contemporary style. From its carefully considered spatial layout to its refined material palette, the home offers a perfect balance of form, function, and beauty. With its connection to the local architectural context and timeless design elements, LDS Residence stands as a modern masterpiece that will continue to inspire for years to come.
