In this 800m² apartment in St Kilda, the generous space contained in the living/dining-room area and the night-time rooms is further enhanced by the vast stretch of glass that faces the ocean. The intense flow of space, the long white sweeping curves and dramatic, far-reaching perspective lines, constructed from travertine and oak, provide a sense of timeless modernity, and a feeling of movement that is in tune with the sea.

Through the curved expanse of glass the water is brought closer – and this nearness brings about an aura of quiet contemplation. This is continued in the master bedroom where slits of light at the base of stone appear like candles in a sacred place.

The sense of lightness and motion – reinforced by steps leading up to a grass roof as if to the sky – is balanced by the gravity and stillness of the bronze doors and the low elemental forms, designed to be both functional and abstract. Throughout the apartment the dialogue between the vertical and the horizontal line is resolved in harmony.

All the pictures © Peter Hyatt.