Melbourne architectural firm Six Degrees (the name derives from the chilly temperature on the iconic Nylex clock the day names were being discussed) is known for embracing human scale in their work, raw materials used in unexpectedly rich, quality finishes, materials that age and tell their story with time, layering and the Japanese concept of “gomi” or utilising unwanted objects,  re-inventeding them to suit a new purpose. Although now more widely know for their high use commercial and cultural spaces it is their smaller, domestic designs that I think really embrace their ideas of human scale, rich layering, reuse and raw materials.

In the heart of the Marches in Italy is a 300 hundred year old farm that combines tradition with the modern, minimalist with the sensory, rough walls with streamlined severity, luxury with simplicity. 360 degree views meet bastion like walls. Infinity pool reaches forever and cool stone is cave like. Casa Olivi, heritage protected, has been renovated by its owners into a luxurious holiday home. Design by Swiss architects Markus Wespi and Jerome de Meuron. This stylish piece of Italy is available for holiday let. More information at Casa Olivi. ***Update: Now available to rent via Paradizo Private Collection

Climbing the slopes of Scotland Island in Pittwater north of Sydney, its footprint determined by the gums that surround it is a home that draws on memories of the holiday shacks of days gone by, of a higgledy piggledy assortment of rooms and sheds, the make do of the fisherman’s shack. No make do here though. A series of rooms are connected by decks and flights of stairs. Walls slide away to open all to the outdoors, the breezes, the views through the trees. A place of privacy, of simplicity and of natural beauty. It’s for sale here while the link lasts. What a tug at the heart to leave all this.

The brief called for a relaxed family holiday beach house on the North Coast of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. What has risen between the milkwood trees is another statement house by SAOTA – Stefan Antoni Olmesdahl Truen Architects. Striking screens sliding across the ocean facade provide privacy, light control and pattern play while once again the architects focus on the transition from luxurious interiors spaces to the equally luxurious outdoors. Poolside is prime real estate in all their designs. 

The Interiors by Antoni Associates express simplicity and restraint while making the home comfortable and cosy. Sand-coloured polished concrete floors, bleached timber, natural leathers and grey linens, are anchored by soft neutrals and countered with touches of charcoal, teal and azure.

Got a problem? Need some help? Just standing there shaking your head? Don’t know what to do? You’re not alone. Send us a link to photos of your design quandary and let the Desire to Inspire design crew help you…. that’s you lot… the readers! This week’s problem is from Mercy in Edinburgh.

I have a balcony facing Holyrood Park and all its glory. However, it is a blank canvas – concrete floor and black railing. Ideally, I would like to create a green haven for al fresco dining, sun bathing on rare sunny days and star glazing cove at night. The railing offer no privacy and it would be great to avoid any glaring eyes. The design would need to require minimal care as I would not have time to trim, pluck, weed,…. Tips welcomed.

(These photos) taken on a wet Summer (!) evening. Balcony is east facing and normally gets the morning sun. Oh a couple of other areas to address as part of the balcony’s revamp:< birds flying over. Great to watch but they can drop their remnants! balcony looks into neighbour’s bathroom window!