Tea House, designed by Krisna Cheung Architects, is a thoughtful response to the desire for a home that embodies Asian warmth while integrating seamlessly into Melbourne’s suburban landscape.
Situated in the bustling southeast of the city, this residence is a haven of comfort and cultural continuity for a family of four, merging tradition with contemporary design.
Drawing from oriental architectural principles, the design achieves a delicate balance between past and present. Every material and spatial element is carefully considered to cultivate a sense of tranquillity.
The house’s form is grounded by a heavy masonry brick base, contrasting with the lighter timber batten façade above. This juxtaposition creates a lantern-like effect, a motif of warmth and invitation. Upon entering, the transition from exterior to interior is reinforced by dark brick walls that reverse the outdoor experience, reinforcing the concept of continuity.
At the forefront of the home, a tearoom replaces the conventional porch, providing a quiet space where the family can greet the morning sunlight with a cup of tea, a ritual steeped in tradition.
Despite being located in a high-density suburb, Tea House is a refuge from its chaotic surroundings. The materials chosen not only enhance its sense of calm but also reflect Melbourne’s architectural fabric, blending cultural influences with local identity.
The use of Monier Nullarbor Terracotta Roof Tiles, Austral Brick Metallic Platinum Bricks, and Cambia Ash Timber Battens ties the home to its context while offering durability and a sense of belonging. The home also embraces multi-generational living, incorporating a grandparents’ retreat at the rear.
Connected via a central hallway that acts as the home’s spine, this space provides both privacy and accessibility, allowing the grandparents to remain an integral part of family life without feeling isolated.
Beyond its immediate function, Tea House contributes to the broader architectural dialogue of Melbourne. It honours the multicultural nature of the city by weaving together different influences in a cohesive manner. Its timber batten façade appears to float, glowing softly in the evening light like a lantern.
The surrounding neighbourhood played a significant role in informing the house’s design, with its roof form and materials carefully considered to complement the adjacent dwellings. Privacy remains a priority, with architectural push-and-pull creating outdoor nooks shielded by timber screens.
These thoughtful punctuations in the façade frame selective glimpses of the streetscape and skyline, seamlessly integrating the urban landscape into the home’s experience. A shared courtyard fosters connection, acting as a meeting space for extended family or potential tenants, reinforcing the growing trend of multi-generational living in suburban settings.
Sustainability is at the core of the design, with locally sourced materials reducing environmental impact while supporting local industries. The orientation of the timber battens provides both shading and privacy, improving thermal performance. The traditional tiled roof enhances insulation, reducing the need for artificial cooling.
Large green-shrouded doors and motorised windows facilitate cross-ventilation, decreasing reliance on mechanical systems and promoting energy efficiency. Spatial harmony is carefully curated, with Feng Shui principles informing key design decisions.
The alignment of the front entry door with a circular wall opening establishes an axis that enhances energy flow, bringing a sense of peace and balance to the home.
Tea House is more than just a residence; it is a meditation on cultural heritage, modern living, and environmental consciousness.
By respecting tradition while embracing contemporary needs, it offers its occupants a serene yet dynamic space that truly feels like home. It is a model for future suburban architecture—one that prioritises connection, adaptability, and a deep-rooted sense of place.
