Inspired by the black Vespa parked in front of its facade, this Sydney home by Stafford Architecture reminds us that timeless, functional design can still create a sense of delight around every corner.
Located in Sydney’s Bellevue Hill, the Black Vespa home designed by Stafford Architecture is a modern sanctuary rooted in functionality. The home is designed to ’embody the spirit’ of the classic black Vespa while highlighting the synchronicity between the natural, warm palette and the surrounding treescape.
Built on a long, narrow site, Black Vespa features a solid brick base with a timber veil giving privacy to the first floor. A concrete band connects the two facade materials, offering ‘a sense of scale to the composition’.
The home is arranged along two distinct axes, with a central axis connecting the entry courtyard, foyer and pool courtyard, designed to create an illusion of depth and space.
Tongue & Groove boards underpin the warm-toned palette.
The theme of intimacy threads throughout the family home, as seen through the private, internal areas that balance views of Sydney Harbour through the tree canopy and the strong connection between separate spaces.
Natural materials and finishes, such as the timber boards that line the floor and ceiling, were integral to meeting the brief while ensuring the home felt well-connected to its surroundings. A series of large glazed openings on each level drench the home in natural light and emphasise the focus on ventilation and fluidity between indoors and outdoors. This means that wherever you are in the home, you’re taking in a natural vista. As a result, Black Vespa evokes an airy calmness that parallels the soft, warm tones throughout the home.
Beyond its quiet and tranquil atmosphere, Black Vespa by Stafford Architecture embodies the true meaning of ‘home’: an enduring, inviting space that nurtures life’s simple pleasures.
Vitrocsa windows invite natural light into the home while seamlessly blending the indoor and outdoor spaces.
A small private pool is located in the internal courtyard, visible from all three levels.
Beyond the front door, the double-volume courtyard creates a sense of arrival.
