Fawkner House has a quiet confidence. Its sculptural form reaches towards the light, creating residences that feel generous, uplifting and deeply connected to their surroundings.
Rob Mills
Fawkner House is a collection of just nine expansive residences overlooking Melbourne's distinguished Domain Precinct. Inspired by Le Corbusier's 1954 chapel Notre Dame du Haut at Ronchamp, the architecture explores sculptural form, organic mass and the richness of natural light. Positioned on the crest of the hill, every residence embraces panoramic views across Fawkner Park, South Yarra and beyond. Although the site could have accommodated significantly more apartments, RMA deliberately chose to create only nine. It reflects a simple belief that one of the greatest luxuries in contemporary living is space.
Every aspect of the building has been carefully shaped by its setting. Sculptural blade walls preserve views towards Fawkner Park while protecting the privacy of neighbouring residences. Recessed terrace glazing provides shade and comfort throughout the seasons, while generous landscaping creates the feeling of living within a private garden suspended above the city. Thoughtfully crafted entrance doors, carefully considered planting and curved architectural forms contribute to a quieter living environment, supporting natural light, improved acoustics, air quality and a stronger connection to nature.
The arrival experience establishes the character of the building from the very beginning. A sweeping composition of Calacatta Viola marble, soaring triple-height volumes and a sculptural roof light introduce interiors that feel calm, generous and beautifully resolved. Within each residence, three-metre ceilings, curved walls, richly detailed materials and gallery-like hallways create an atmosphere of quiet sophistication. Steel-framed glazed doors balance openness with intimacy, allowing natural light to flow freely while creating spaces that can adapt to different moments throughout the day.
Throughout Fawkner House, every material has been selected for its warmth, authenticity and enduring quality. Marble, natural stone, hand-stained timber, polished plaster and finely crafted brass detailing create interiors that feel both refined and welcoming. The architecture and interiors share a common language, allowing every element to contribute to a sense of calm and clarity. This thoughtful restraint creates residences that feel timeless, deeply comfortable and a genuine pleasure to inhabit.
The things we choose to live with become part of the story of our lives. A favourite chair, a work of art, an object discovered while travelling or something passed from one generation to the next can hold meaning far beyond its function. We believe a home should make space for these things and allow new memories to gather around them. Furniture, art and objects are therefore never simply the finishing touches. They help transform architecture into something deeply personal: a home that could belong to no one else.
