A Modern Barn Haven in Queensland

This stunning Barn style home in Brisbane is the work of Toowong-based architects, kahrtel. Built in 2015, this new home build is full of surprises that redefine the modern look. We spoke to Chloe Middleton of kahrtel to learn more about this unique Queensland residence.

MELDING THE TRADITIONAL AND THE MODERN

Located on a block just over 700m2 in size in the northern Brisbane suburb of Nundah, the home is located on a street with an eclectic mix of houses old and new.

"This home was designed to be sympathetic to the diversity in the street," says Chloe. "It’s a mix of contemporary modern and traditional Queenslander weatherboard."

She notes that the house’s most distinctive feature is it’s Scandinavian Barn style roofline. “It was a one-off design at the time but has since sparked many similar ones around the suburb.”

CLEAN LINES AND ELEMENTS OF SURPRISE

This private residence beautifully captures the Nordic simplicity of the modern Barn style home.

This is showcased in the home’s geometric lines and signature steeply pitched, eaves-free gable roof. As well as its simple, constrained palette of crisp whites, warm wood tones, and dark accents, which run harmoniously throughout the whole house, inside and out. The dark accents helping to seamlessly connect the home’s interior and exterior living spaces.

Clever elements of surprise were also used as a key design driver. For example, the large solid sliding panels and other cleverly placed obscure openings create privacy but also allow residents to open up and reveal the framed idyllic views enjoyed from the property.

Chloe highlights the use of solid sliding doors – instead of glass doors – where city views are dramatically revealed every time they are opened as an example of this.

“Combined with the balustrades made from Linea™ Weatherboard, the need for privacy also contributes a strong windowless aesthetic, which makes the design fresh.”

“The pared-back aesthetic and clean lines are executed brilliantly with details like gutters hidden behind the fascia,” says Chloe.

She notes that garages can often be a blot on a beautiful home. “But this one blends allowing the upper level to be the focal point with minimal distraction.”

THE PERFECT MARRIAGE OF MATERIALS AND DESIGN

The simplicity and classic look of Linea™ Weatherboard is an ideal complement to the Barn home.

Linea™ Weatherboard brings a premium, contemporary look to this home. While the product has the same streamlined appearance as timber, it doesn’t require the upkeep or have the susceptibility to heat and moisture damage that timber does.

The modern Barn style is a timeless design aesthetic, which, when crafted with the right materials will prove to be a low maintenance look that will stand the test of time. Just like this home.

TOP TIPS FOR GETTING THE LOOK

• Design your home to be sympathetic to the surrounding environment.
• A pared-back aesthetic, geometric lines and a simple contrasting palette are central to achieving the Barn look.
• Linea™ Weatherboard is an ideal complement to the modern Scandinavian Barn style home.