Welcome to my home

A four-bedroom, new-build house in Hamilton East, New South Wales, Australia.

“In a home with vast amounts of concrete, you continually find new colours and imperfections that transform through seasons” the

Guy Bunder’s unique modern home sits on a small triangular site in Hamilton East in the suburbs of Newcastle, two hours’ drive north of Sydney. Guy, owner of MADE Architectural Constructions (madebymade.com.au), collaborated with Space Design Architecture (sdarch.com.au) on the low-maintenance design. Built with reclaimed bricks and featuring shiplap cladding, it was inspired by the juxtaposition of industrial buildings on one side and residential homes on the other. ‘I wanted a home that reflected the site and made the most of its quirks,’ says Guy of the eight-month build.

Throughout, raw materials such as concrete and exposed bricks were used alongside a minimalist colour palette. ‘The hard surfaces were softened by the timber ceiling on the ground floor and vertical gardens in the hallway and kitchen, which feel very calming,’ he says. Guy particularly loves the metal staircase with glass balustrade. ‘I envisaged something open and seamless, offsetting the heavy solid first flight,’ he says.

Another must was temperature control. ‘The house was orientated to allow all-season cross ventilation,’ says Guy. ‘Its thermal performance was carefully considered through insulation, glazing and sunlight warming internal slabs during the cooler months.’

To add wow to the kitchen, matt black cabinetry and a charcoal concrete worktop were combined with a burnished concrete floor, exposed brick splashback and reclaimed timber. ‘By far my favourite thing in the house is the kitchen worktop,’ says Guy. ‘It was made in the garage and then carried into place by 12 people.’

The new design is perfect for Guy’s lifestyle. ‘I always enjoy the company of friends and family,’ he says. ‘And this open-plan space is perfect for entertaining, while remaining connected to other areas of the home.’