Wolf Architects
Wolf Architects are a Melbourne-based firm specialising in contemporary architecture for residential projects. We pride ourselves with an environmentally conscious design philosophy that not only embodies innovative ideas in architectural design, but takes advantage of green, energy efficient construction materials. Headed by internationally renowned designer Taras Wolf, we are highly experienced with modern, luxury house design. Taras guides the team with a unique insight ‘ leveraging off knowledge and experience gained as an artist, sculptor and award winning architect with many projects featured in design magazines.
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Projects:
Wolf House 1
Mlebourne, 2012
The Wolf house is a family home that was designed and built to a very extensive, detailed, and specific brief that was fulfilled with a continuum of intertwining spaces. The architecture is an example of many ideas at once and is fuelled by a rich personal memories from the family’s Asian heritage and a passion for the excellence of Mercedes Benz . A carefully conceived staircase gently winds up to the roof top studio. Together with an open void space it forms a vertical corridor through the centre of the house to creating zones that separates public from private, and parents from children. Various views and vistas through this vertical corridor playfully connect the family. Ultimately it acts as thermal chimney that allows for night purging. A large variety of materials were used throughout. A change in colour tone, texture and density can be seen as one travels through the various levels and spaces. The ground level for example has harder and darker surfaces while the top floor is an expression of softness and lightness. On so many levels from form, arrangement of spaces, use natural light and materiality the house works like a well honed and finely crafted instrument. SUSTAINABLILTY To achieve 8 Stars the house focused on minimizing mechanical heating and cooling with good insulation and orientation of windows(which are all double glazed).Various internal walls were also insulated to improve sound/zone control and thermal performance. While the house is north Facing it still allows light to penetrate to the deepest spaces on towards the southern end building. This was achieved through a carefully conceived vertical corridor in the centre of the house that is made up of a winding staircase and void. Ultimately it acts as thermal chimney that allows for night purging. Operable windows in strategic locations further allows the house to breath.
Mount Waverly House
Mount Waverley, 2011
A popular trend today is for homes with clean lines and flowing connections. For Wolf Architects, a Melbourne based firm specialising in contemporary, environmentally conscious design, this project proved to be rewarding for many reasons. The modern multi-level house sits on 667 square metres and comprises five massive bedrooms designed for relaxation and rest, four bathrooms, a family room for leisure and entertainment, and a formal study. In this project the site of a “once was” tennis court was transformed into a 60 square dwelling. The client’s brief was to fit as much as possible, including a lap pool and a four-car garage, onto the irregular block. This involved a lot of preplanning to make the most of the space. The site was deceiving as it appeared flat and easy to work with, however it proved challenging due to limited space and the need for extensive retaining walls to hold back neighbouring properties. “Wolf Architects’ main goal on all projects is to enhance lives through architecture, so we are always inspired by thinking about the end user and how they will enjoy the space,” explains Taras Wolf. “We were very fortunate with this project to work with builder David Toebelmann from Toebcons PL. David appreciates good design and understands the importance of energy-efficient design. Working very closely with these builders, we were able to create not only a well-proportioned look, but also a home with an adaptable flexible structure, built to take advantage of the northern sun.” A key feature of the flexible design is the versatility of the rooms. “The study and home theatre can also be used as bedrooms as the theatre has a door to an ensuite and there is plenty of deep cupboard space,” continued Taras. All rooms are large and take advantage of abundant natural light due to the placement of many floor-to-ceiling natural timber windows and bi-fold doors. The open living space features American oak flooring in a dark shade which is complemented by the crisp white walls and minimalist furniture. The massive windows are prominently placed around the living space, providing natural light and an inviting view to the lap pool. An eye-catching clear-glass balustrade surrounding the oak staircase is a prominent feature, while the hallway windows at the top are a fascinating design addition. Just more than a metre in height from the floor, they are deliberately designed to form a pattern on the ground with the afternoon sun, while also allowing space for paintings or family portraits to be hung above them. Caesarstone bench tops and high- quality Miele appliances are featured in the kitchen, while the bathroom’s highlight is the freestanding stone bath. There is a real emphasis on white in both rooms, highlighting the modern, minimalist feel of the home. Wolf Architects has created not only a purposeful space, but a trendy and innovative residence for the client. “Architect and builder were able to work in perfect synergy to create this project,” says Taras, and it is evident the collaboration was incredibly successful.
Bruce Street House
Victoria, 2009
Specialising in luxury home designs, Wolf Architects was assigned the job of designing this modern-style home in Melbourne. Following a radical approach, the design embraced dimension and form through its dramatic architecture and fine features.
