

luigi rosselli architects wrap arcadia house with a wall of white shutters in sydney

image © justin alexander

located on a quiet suburb of paddington, outside sydney, luigi rosselli architects has rejuvenated this gothic revival villa. derived and named after a mythological place of peace and happiness, the ‘arcadia house’ hides away from the street and unexpectedly opens up to generous garden scenery and a private pool. wanting to be consistent with the original style of the property, the new exterior blends seamlessly with the victorian front veranda. the pattern on the ashlar masonry walls have been recreated, but uses a different material.

the upper level features a continuous series of white, detailed shutters which open up to reveal a balcony; this is complimented with the monolithic concrete wall below, creating a subtly refined base to the building. internally, the rooms is constantly illuminated with natural light and retains some original features of the house, sitting side by side with contemporary details. a concrete ceiling, is framed by recycled hardwood timber and an oak staircase connects the three leveled property together. with a neutral yet refined material palette, the home has been elegantly adapted to the family living inside.



the frangipani tree will shower the courtyard once a year with its intense, lavender colored flowers

image © justin alexander



the dining room

image © justin alexander



sheer curtains provide privacy and soften the large family room

image © justin alexander



on the left hand side of the kitchen, a hidden door leads to a pantry room and laundry

image © justin alexander



the bathroom

image © justin alexander



the shading for the upper bedroom floor is open to an infinite combination of the shutter operations

image © justin alexander



the attic has been converted into a beautifully lit recreational space

image © justin alexander



the traditional shutter façade sits on a textured concrete base

image © edward birch



image © edward birch