Dollhouse 2.0 by Aura Design Studio
Dollhouse 2.0, designed by Aura Design Studio, exemplifies how thoughtful architecture can transform a compact inner-city lot into a haven of comfort, light, and modern design. Located just south of Angove Street in one of North Perth’s most sought-after neighbourhoods, this home is a statement in urban living without compromise.
SPOTLIGHT
/ Designed by Aura Design Studio (the architect’s own home)
/ Built by Brooks Construction
/ WA Architecture Awards 2019 | Commendation | Residential – New Homes
/ WA Architecture Awards 2019 | Commendation | Interior Design
/ BDAWA Awards 2019 | Commendation | Small Lot Design
/ BDAWA Awards 2019 | Winner | Best Kitchen
/ Polytec Design Awards 2020 | Winner | Furniture Category
/ Australia by Design | Interiors Season 2 | People’s Choice Award
/ Featured in Fabric Quarterly | Issue #4
/ Intelligently designed and flexible living spaces
/ Alti Lighting throughout
/ Muuto feature yellow pendant lights
/ High-end kitchen with Smeg Oven, Smeg steam oven, Smeg 900m gas cooktop, Quasair rangehood, 12mm porcelain benchtops and splashbacks and walk-in butler’s pantry
/ Integrated bespoke storage throughout with built-in furniture and bench seats
/ Electric louvres and electric blinds to void
/ Neutral wiring for smart integration (through Clipsal Wiser App)
/ Abundance of power points and data points
/ Low maintenance materials including pre-finished fibre cement (Equitone)
/ Low maintenance garden, including WIFI controlled reticulation
/ Shadow line cornices throughout the house (including garage)
/ Outdoor courtyard plus two balconies
/ American Oak timber floors to upper floor
/ Burnished concrete to ground floor
/ Gas point for bbq
/ Whole house water filter
/ Daikin reverse ducted AC with WiFi controller
/ Alspec windows, with anodised frames (majority commercial frames) and 6mm glazing
/ Large format tiles to wet areas
/ Security screens to all operable windows downstairs
The design ethos behind Dollhouse 2.0 centers on creating flexible, functional spaces that can evolve with a growing family. Every aspect of the home is tailored for adaptability, ensuring that it remains both practical and comfortable over time. The finishes were meticulously chosen for their durability, emphasising low maintenance and sustainability.
The residence’s exterior is constructed from resilient materials, including concrete bricks and a three-coat Dulux Acratex external acrylic render. Equitone prefinished external lining boards add texture to the entry portico and upper eaves, while matte-finish Colorbond cladding is used for the roof and wall cladding, contributing to the home’s contemporary yet robust aesthetic.
Inside, the interiors are softened with natural materials, creating a warm and inviting environment. Upstairs, American White Oak timber flooring provides a soft touch under foot, while burnished concrete downstairs adds an industrial flavour. Solid timber window sills, Fenix black ‘fingerprint proof’ laminate panels and cabinets and Polytec melamine complete the design.
At the heart of Dollhouse 2.0 lies a central void, an important design feature that floods the home with natural northern light, facilitates airflow and creates a visual connection with the street. Above, an artistic installation crafted from the inner workings of an abandoned piano found in a nearby laneway adds a local touch to the space.
Every room in the home is carefully considered, offering flexibility in how the spaces are used. The double garage, accessible from the laneway, connects seamlessly to the outdoor living area via a translucent door. This clever design allows the two spaces to be combined for larger gatherings, demonstrating the home’s ability to expand and contract to accommodate various family dynamics and social occasions.
Maximising space was a key priority in the design of Dollhouse 2.0. Integrated storage solutions and built-in furniture ensure that every inch of the home is utilised efficiently, proving that homes on smaller lots can still offer ample functionality without sacrificing everyday needs or comfort.
Thermal and environmental efficiency is another hallmark of Dollhouse 2.0. The home is designed to take advantage of cross-flow ventilation and boasts primary exposure to the north and south, with minimal exposure to the western sun. These features ensure that the home remains cool in summer and warm in winter, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.
Nestled on a quiet, picturesque street in a family-friendly neighbourhood, Dollhouse 2.0 offers both sanctuary and convenience. With Angove Street, Fitzgerald Street, and Hyde Park just a short walk away, residents enjoy easy access to vibrant cafes, shops, and green spaces. Commuting to the city is effortless, whether by bus, Uber, or a short drive.
RATES
Council $2,759.17 pa
Water $1,663.98 pa