Babylonia: A harmonious blend of nature and architecture
FMD Architects reimagined the grandeur of the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon with their design of Babylonia, nestled in the north-east suburbs of Melbourne, Australia. This creation serves as a contemporary tribute to ancient gardens, with the structure seamlessly integrating with its sloping landscape, embracing layers of gardens and terraces that define its unique character.
Slope-embracing design
Babylonia’s design begins with a striking double-height central space, where in-situ concrete walls rise like vast tree trunks. These elements guide the flow through the house, drawing you toward the lush terraced gardens. The structure splits into two wings: the western wing, influenced by nearby eucalypt trees, while the eastern wing opens to communal spaces.
Architectural curves and natural forms
The exterior of Babylonia is distinctive for its curved rooflines that complement the property’s natural surroundings. Inside, the use of materials like terrazzo, Tasmanian oak, and natural stone provides texture and character to each room, creating a cohesive yet varied interior setting.
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Garden dining experiences
The home extends towards a lush terrace, with levels that maintain the landscape’s natural slope. A blackened steel structure serves as an elegant dining pavilion, offering a tranquil spot for outdoor meals. Here, the architecture and nature meld, highlighting the surrounding greenery in a nod to ancient horticultural beauty.
Modern homage to ancient gardens: Serenity by the pool
The western wing offers a secluded living area overlooking both garden and pool. Timber ceilings ascend toward the canopy, maintaining a connection with nature. This design fosters a soothing residential atmosphere, merging indoor comfort with outdoor elegance in a tribute to historic greenery.
Integrated living spaces
The eastern side of the home embraces open living and dining spaces, where expansive views of the rising garden blend seamlessly with the interior. The central volume’s double height enhances the openness, while a mix of Tasmanian oak, stone, terrazzo, and tiles creates a consistent ambiance that pays homage to ancient botanical artistry.
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Innovative kitchen layout
The kitchen’s unique T-shaped layout adds a distinct element to the eastern wing. With timber and stone surfaces echoing the home’s material palette, the space harmonizes with the architectural language seen throughout the property.
Fluid movement and dynamic spaces
Movement is key in Babylonia’s design. A central volume provides a core from which the house unfolds. Concrete walls guide you between levels, from the lower rooms to bright, expansive upstairs spaces that overlook the gardens.
Cocoon-like primary suite
In the private western wing, the primary suite features timber-lined ceilings and garden views shaped by the natural tree canopy. The bedroom feels like a retreat, enhanced by warm wood tones and the surrounding greenery.
The primary bathroom is a sanctuary of textures, with dark mosaic tiles, rich green stone, and large windows. A sculptural bath and double vanity offer luxury, while a dressing area with bespoke storage adds practicality.
Entertaining in enclosed elegance
The lower level hosts spaces tailored for relaxation and entertainment. A bar area beneath a pond-filtered skylight leads to a dining area and games room. Comfort is key here, with seating areas and even a drum kit enhancing the playful vibe in this homage to ancient gardens.
Wellness oasis
An open-air courtyard transitions into the wellness wing, where terracotta tiles lead to an indoor pool, sauna, and gym. This area is a dedicated retreat, with design elements that foster wellness and tranquility, representing a salute to historical garden concepts.
Diverse guest bathrooms
Three guest bathrooms feature distinct designs. One bath’s deep green tiles and matte black fixtures complement a stone vanity, while another combines pale tiles with wood cabinetry. A third contrasts bold stone with warm wood, creating dynamic, inviting spaces.
In Babylonia, FMD Architects combine the spirit of the Hanging Gardens with modern design principles. From its lush gardens to fluid architectural forms, the home is a testament to blending natural and built environments in harmony as a modern reverence of ancient gardens.
Photography by Peter Bennetts
Source: contemporist.com
Frequently asked questions
What inspired the design of Babylonia in Melbourne?
The design of Babylonia is a contemporary tribute to the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon, reimagined by FMD Architects to integrate seamlessly with the natural sloping landscape of Melbourne.
What materials are used in the interior of Babylonia?
The interior of Babylonia features materials like terrazzo, Tasmanian oak, and natural stone, providing texture and character to the rooms and creating a cohesive yet varied setting.
How does Babylonia incorporate natural elements into its architecture?
Babylonia incorporates natural elements by embracing layers of gardens and terraces, curved rooflines that complement the surroundings, and design elements that maintain a connection with nature, such as timber ceilings and garden views.