- Project: Woorarra House
- Architect: Rptecture Architects
- Location: Australia, Yarra Valley, Melbourne
- Year: 2022
- Area: 900 m2
- Photography: Impress Photography
A Modern Barn Retreat Amid the Rolling Hills of Yarra Valley
Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Yarra Valley, Woorarra House by Rptecture Architects redefines the notion of a contemporary farmhouse. What began as a modest rural homestead has been transformed into a luxurious family retreat, where the warmth of traditional Australian country living meets refined modern architecture.
This renovation is not a simple upgrade—it’s a complete reimagining of rural domestic life. Through natural materials, open-plan living, and an abundance of light, Woorarra House balances the familiar character of a barn with the sophistication of contemporary design.
Preserving Character Through Modern Design
Rptecture Architects approached the renovation with sensitivity to the original farmhouse structure, retaining its footprint while transforming its spatial and visual identity. The goal was to capture panoramic vineyard views and enhance the property’s connection to its picturesque setting.
A central light-filled living pavilion acts as the heart of the home, framed by a striking cathedral ceiling that recalls the spirit of traditional barns. Expansive glazing along the northern façade floods the interiors with natural light, while framing the rolling hills beyond.
The home’s layout embraces openness and flow. Living areas, kitchen, and bedrooms are strategically aligned to maximize sunlight and views throughout the day. A portion of the veranda was intentionally opened to blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, allowing nature to enter seamlessly into daily life.
Sustainability Rooted in Place
At the core of the Woorarra House design lies a strong commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship. Rptecture Architects prioritized regional materials and passive design principles, ensuring that the home is both environmentally responsible and timeless in character.
Key strategies include:
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Locally sourced natural stone for the exterior walls, minimizing transport emissions and celebrating local geology.
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Colorbond steel cladding, chosen for durability and resilience against Australia’s varied climate.
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Timber flooring and finishes that infuse warmth while supporting local industries.
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North-facing orientation for primary living areas, maximizing solar gain during winter and natural light year-round.
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Deep eaves, vertical louvers, and skylights that regulate temperature, reduce glare, and enhance comfort naturally.
This holistic approach allows the home to tread lightly on the environment while offering a healthy, energy-efficient living space.
A Dialogue Between Architecture and Landscape
Woorarra House is anchored by a central portal-frame structure inspired by the geometry of traditional barn houses. This motif is expressed through the open-plan living zone, which rises dramatically beneath the cathedral ceiling and faces outward through a fully glazed north façade.
Natural stone and steel come together in harmony, creating a tactile and timeless palette that mirrors the surrounding environment. The material contrast highlights the architectural form while grounding it within the landscape.
The veranda and deck serve as transitional thresholds—places of gathering, reflection, and connection to the sweeping vineyard views that define Yarra Valley living.
A Harmonious Balance of Tradition and Innovation
More than a renovation, Woorarra House is an architectural rebirth—a fusion of heritage and innovation, designed to last generations. By preserving the spirit of the original farmhouse and infusing it with sustainable, forward-looking design, Rptecture Architects has created a home that feels both authentically Australian and universally modern.
Warm, grounded, and deeply connected to its setting, Woorarra House stands as a model for contemporary rural living — a place where architecture, environment, and family life converge in effortless harmony.
