The Hedge and Arbour House by Studio Bright has been recognized with the 2025 Robin Boyd Award for Residential Architecture – Houses (New), representing one of the most exciting examples of how architects and clients are exploring revolutionary approaches to modern living. Located in Melbourne, Victoria on Wurundjeri Country, this groundbreaking project demonstrates a radical rethinking of how residential architecture can foster deeper connections with the natural environment.
The award jury praised the house for its exceptional conceptual approach, noting how it draws the bushland at the rear of the property forward to almost entirely envelope the structure within the landscape. This innovative design strategy creates a striking contrast between the formal hedge visible from the street and the unexpectedly wild landscape that lies beyond, challenging conventional notions of suburban residential development.
The entry sequence through walled gardens presents visitors with two distinct scenarios, prompting reflection on how people want to inhabit their environment. According to the jury citation, it is rare for a house to so directly challenge occupants and visitors in this meaningful way. The thoughtful design makes the choice between manicured and natural landscapes explicit, encouraging deeper consideration of our relationship with nature.
Architecturally, the house is wrapped in a galvanized steel-mesh arbor that serves as both a simplifying design element and a framework that allows the landscape to subsume the structure almost entirely. Where openings exist in this mesh envelope, they are robust and purposeful. The thoughtful details and careful composition of openings and external spaces significantly elevate the house's aesthetic appeal while maintaining its connection to the surrounding environment.
The interior spaces provide a calming refuge that maintains constant visual connection to the bush landscape beyond. The architects at Studio Bright have successfully achieved what the jury describes as "just the right balance between living well and modestly." This balance reflects a growing trend in contemporary architecture toward more sustainable and nature-integrated living solutions.
The project team was led by Studio Bright, with key contributions from Melissa Bright, Emily Watson, Rob McIntyre, Pei She Lee, and Maia Close. The construction was completed by Built by Guild, Frank (Victoria) Pty Ltd, with landscape architecture by Sarah Hicks and landscape contracting by Lucida Landscapes. Engineering services were provided by Meyer Consulting, and building surveying by Fotia Group.
According to the jury, leaving the Hedge and Arbour House and moving from the wild landscape through the manicured hedge feels like being given "a glimpse of a glorious future." This sentiment reflects the project's success in demonstrating new possibilities for residential architecture that prioritizes environmental integration and sustainable living practices. The house was reviewed by Ella Leoncio for Houses magazine and represents a significant achievement in contemporary Australian residential design.
