Ross Street

Taking inspiration from the leading fashion houses of the world, architect Rob Mills endeavors to create homes in which each room forms a chapter in the story of the space. Sheltered from the hustle and bustle of the street, Ross Street in Melbourne, Australia is one of the smaller properties in Mills’ porfolio, but sacrifices none of the drama that's characteristic of his work.

Upon entering the residence, one’s first sight is of the full-length lap pool that doubles as a moat around the home’s exterior. On the farside of the pool, a black Bertoia Diamond Chair and matching Saarinen Side Table provide an invitation to dry off in the sun after a dip. Since fluidity of movement was a concern of the clients, little distinction is made between the interior and exterior spaces, which flow seamlessly into one another.

Photograph courtesy of Rob Mills.

Channeling the work of mid-century innovators, Mill’s adopted a similar approach, using “the sharp angularity of the concrete façade and zinc awning blades [to] invoke a clean modernist aesthetic.” Throughout the interior, a tactile mix of surfaces can be found, including glass, zinc, oak and concrete.

“To complete the modernist aesthetic, key furniture pieces were chosen to compliment the interior architecture, namely the Saarinen Tulip Armchairs, Saarinen Womb Chair and Florence Knoll Table Desk.”

—Rob Mills

Photograph courtesy of Rob Mills.

“To complete the modernist aesthetic, key furniture pieces were chosen to compliment the interior architecture, namely the Saarinen Tulip Armchair, Saarinen Womb Chair and Florence Knoll Table Desk.” Taken together, the pieces articulate the tenor of the space. Interior designer Scott Walker assisted with sourcing and arranging the furnishings.

Photograph courtesy of Rob Mills.

The spiral staircase was inspired by the work of David Chipperfield and separates formal from informal spaces. Incorporating sculptural elements at once modern and ancient, the stairs combine minimalist details, including the recessed banister, with equally dramatic features, like the oculus that crowns the ascent. As sunlight penetrates the skylight window, the different contours of the space come to bear in a manner reminiscent of Richard Meier’s all-white buildings.

Photograph courtesy of Rob Mills.

“The brief only [stated] that the home be dramatic, modern and detailed to perfection,” Mills explains, as if further justification was needed for the home’s final form.

Project Credits:

Design: Rob Mills
Interior Design: Scott Walker

All photographs are courtesy of Rob Mills.

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