St Kilda Shortlist 2026 Victorian Architecture Awards

Materia

A rejection of standard construction, creating a space that is deeply tactile and distinctly human.

Materia is a combined home and architectural studio - designed, built, and inhabited by the architect. Rather than demolishing the existing double-brick outer walls, the project works within and around it, transforming a retained structure into an entirely new environment.

A rejection of standard, off-the-shelf construction, Materia is defined by meticulous craftsmanship. Hundreds of bespoke concrete elements were hand-cast on site to create a space that is deeply tactile and distinctly human. Almost every detail was crafted specifically for this environment rather than selected from a catalogue.

This uncompromising approach extends far below the surface. Driven by a desire to create a home that feels effortlessly comfortable and actively promotes health, the project was built to the rigorous Passivhaus standard. This methodology guarantees continuous fresh air, unwavering thermal stability, and exceptional energy efficiency. By demanding airtight, highly resolved construction "under the skin," the result is a resilient structure designed to last for generations.

The combination of these two facets bridges the gap between raw, tactile craftsmanship and invisible, high-performance engineering, ensuring the home functions as beautifully as it looks. It creates an environment that is not just a building, but a profound sensory experience.

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Enquiries 71 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182 info@obsessivearchitecture.com 0403 675 489
Credentials ARBV Registered Practice Australian Institute of Architects — Member Passivhaus certified buildings delivered Shortlisted — 2026 Victorian Architecture Awards