Best of est | Atriums

Originating from ancient Roman architecture, atriums are typically situated at the centre of the home and surrounded by glass walls, offering an unobstructed view of the sky. Once only found in large-scale commercial buildings such as offices and hotel lobbies, atriums have  become a favourable addition to contemporary homes. 

In the spirit of welcoming light and lush foliage into the home, the designers behind these five homes showcase the seamless transition from indoor to outdoor spaces. Bringing an enviable sense of openness to the core of each home, these five atriums are an inspiring case for an alternative urban garden or a protected place for plants to grow. 

Stark House by Park + Associates

A recent favourite on est, Stark House by Singapore-based design practice Park + Associates delivers an awe-inspiring central atrium. Situated in a 1980s housing estate, Park + Associates worked in close collaboration with the homeowners to create a unique home that stood out from its complex setting.

Undoubtedly the stand-out design feature of the home, the vertical atrium is the first thing you see when you enter, with lush foliage visible from multiple rooms and storeys in the home. The mature trees are worked into the architecture, as every level of the home faces away from the neighbours and towards the greenery. 

Britselei Penthouse by Hans Verstuyft Architecten

Located in Antwerp, this converted 1960s office is the live-work space for coveted Belgian architect Hans Verstuyft. The three-storey building encases the architect’s studio on the first level, followed by a double-storey penthouse.

The entire building is modelled around the atrium that contains a 35-year-old tree, with its black steel-framed windows and full-height glass. Nature plays a vital role in this space, with the atrium connecting the living areas, bedrooms and bathrooms; proving a refreshing contrast to inner-city life.

An Artist’s Home by Studio David Thulstrup

Once a pencil factory, this light-filled industrial building sits on Copenhagen’s harbour and plays home to Danish photographer Peter Krasilnikoff. Central to the home is a striking atrium framed by black-steel windows, gently offsetting the timber-clad walls. The rooftop terrace makes for a birds-eye view of the atrium, adding another layer to the multi-dimensional space.

Much like the home of Hans Verstuyft, all three levels of the home have access to the plant views, and the pared-back colour palette of grey, black and washed oak allow the greenery to speak for itself.

Casa Atrio by Biasol

With its name being a direct Italian translation of ‘atrium house’, Casa Atrio by Melbourne design studio Biasol brings a refreshing wave of European style to this Victorian-era home. 

Engaged to redesign the space to allow for a greater influx of natural light, Biasol have broken up the compact terrace with an elegantly-framed atrium next to the kitchen. Showcasing views of the staircase, the small yet spectacular atrium effectively captures the essence of a European apartment in the heart of Melbourne.