Clare House Case Study: Custom Architectural Home in Auchenflower

Project Overview

Perched on a steep, commanding site in Auchenflower, Clare House is a testament to innovative, site-specific architecture. The clients sought a custom architectural home that would capture the sweeping views of the Brisbane city skyline while seamlessly integrating a modern extension with an existing character home. The result is a highly bespoke, multi-level sanctuary that celebrates light, volume, and spectacular curves.

The Design Process: Navigating an Acute L-Shaped Block

The unique topography and boundaries of this Auchenflower site dictated the entire design strategy. The block’s unusual shape forced the architectural footprint to form an 'L' shape, coming to a rather acute point.

To resolve this, our design process required a highly bespoke approach. We completely reimagined the site layout, incorporating a second frontage specifically dedicated to the garage to ensure the primary facade remained uninterrupted. Navigating this sloping block meant dealing with severe level changes, which we embraced to create a beautifully layered elevation that bridges the original house with the new additions.

Our Approach: Mastering Curves and Layered Elevations

Rather than fighting the acute angles of the block, our approach softened them through the extensive use of curved architecture. These sweeping, organic lines guide the eye and create a natural flow from the streetscape through to the internal living zones.

Key architectural elements include:

• Layered Elevation: Carefully stepped levels that work with the sloping block, providing distinct zones for privacy and entertaining.

• Fluid Interiors: Arched doorways and curved walls that echo the exterior facade, creating a cohesive design language throughout the home.

• City-Facing Entertaining: Positioning the primary outdoor living areas to act as an elevated viewing platform for the Brisbane city skyline.

Key Design Results

1. Bespoke Arched Interiors

The commitment to fluid, organic design continues internally. Custom arched doorways and gently curved walls soften the transitions between rooms, framing sightlines into the bedrooms and bathrooms. This detailing elevates the everyday experience, making the interior spaces feel incredibly sculptural and refined.

2. A Striking, Sculptural Facade

The exterior of Clare House stands as a striking piece of modern architecture in Auchenflower. The curved facade effortlessly hugs the awkward boundaries of the block, while integrated subtropical greenery softens the transition between the built form and the natural landscape.

3. Resort-Style Vertical Living

To overcome the steep nature of the sloping block, the design incorporates a striking external staircase and an integrated residential lift. Flanked by a mature palm tree, this vertical circulation zone not only provides highly practical access across the layered elevations but acts as a dramatic, resort-style design feature.

Clare House represents the pinnacle of what can be achieved when bold clients meet innovative architectural design on a challenging block. We are incredibly proud of the global and national recognition this home has received.

• Featured globally on ArchDaily.

• Winner of the international BIGSEE Architecture Award.

• Featured on national television in Dream Homes Revealed.

• View the full image gallery on the Clare House project page.

Planning a custom architectural home on a challenging block in Auchenflower or Brisbane Book a consultation with Invilla today.